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Physical oceanographers study the physical properties of the ocean, including currents, temperatures, and patterns, and their impact on the environment. They use instruments to measure ocean characteristics and work from shore or ships to expand knowledge. They also study the relationship between the ocean and its surroundings, including weather and marine life.
A physical oceanographer is a type of scientist who studies the physical properties of the ocean. This includes, but is not limited to, learning about current waves, temperatures and patterns. It also typically includes studying the relationship between water in the ocean and its surroundings above and below the waves.
One of the most common areas of study is the impact of the ocean on its surroundings. This typically includes how the water interacts with the shoreline to move sand to and from the beach. Of particular concern is the problem of erosion, as this affects both human habitation and the natural environment. A physical oceanographer can work with land developers or planners to avoid placing homes, buildings, or other types of developments where the ocean could destroy them.
Another area of interest is the weather. Specifically, this type of scientist is interested in how the ocean and its currents affect climate, close to the ocean and further inland. Hurricanes and typhoons are of great interest, but so are milder weather conditions. The relationship of ocean conditions to temperature and precipitation on land is an important aspect of the field. Physical oceanographers continually strive to understand how conditions at sea relate to flood and drought conditions on land.
As a rule, this scientist is not involved in the study of marine life, except that the animals and plants of the ocean are related to the physical conditions around them. Underwater volcanoes, called mounts, earthquakes and anything else that affects the ocean floor affects the animals that live there. A physical oceanographer might work with marine biologists or other scientists who study marine life in an effort to determine how these events change the everyday lives of creatures in the ocean.
To study the physical characteristics of the ocean, a physical oceanographer typically uses many different types of instruments. It is important that he or she understands how to use multiple devices. They can be used to measure current depth and speed, sea floor changes, wind speed over or near the ocean, and ocean temperature at various locations.
While some of these scientists may work exclusively in a lab, many of them do not. In these cases, the physical oceanographer works from shore or from ships and vessels to place instruments that will help expand the available knowledge. It is then up to the oceanographer to interpret the results obtained with the instruments.
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