ABSTRACT
A study of oceanographic factors includes driving mechanisms to create flow of water in the ocean and sea water chemical properties. These primary energy sources are due either to radiation or gravitational attraction. This chapter discusses Earth system processes, tides, and currents. Large-scale movement of air distributes thermal energy on the earth’s surface. This movement of air is due to solar radiation (i.e., heating) and the laws of thermodynamics. The design of marine structures requires the determination of a maximum water level and sometimes a minimum water level that will be experienced over the projected life of the project. These expected maximum and minimal water levels are termed the design water levels. Oceanic phenomena depend upon the physical interaction between the atmosphere and the ocean. Winds in the lower atmosphere are responsible for waves, surface currents, mixing of the surface layer of the ocean, and the exchange of energy in the form of heat and water vapor.
