Oceanography is a relatively new science that began to emerge in the 19th century. Combining biology, chemistry, physics, and geology, the study of the Earth's oceans helps us to understand the interrelatedness of natural processes on land, in the sea, and in the air. Covering the numerous developments in marine science since the first edition was published, "Oceans, Revised Edition" discusses the thousands of new marine species inhabiting the Earth's oceans that have been discovered in the last decade, ranging from microbes, to deep-water corals, to the largest species of whales. It examines the public's increased awareness of climate change, and how it has become a key issue on the political agenda of many governments.Changes in knowledge, understanding, or practice are succinctly reflected in this revised edition, which features updated sidebars and a tide of brand-new illustrations and full-color photographs that illuminate oceanic issues for high school readers. More than two-thirds of the artwork has been revised or replaced, most notably in the chapters covering geography, geology, biology, and ecology.