ABSTRACT
Physical oceanography is the branch of marine science dealing with physical conditions and physical processes in the oceans. Physical oceanographers have been particularly interested in the coupling between intense mesoscale eddies and energetic ocean currents at mid-latitudes. Mesoscale eddies and the role they play in the dynamics of the oceans remain the focus of many physical oceanographic studies. The proximity of landmasses greatly influences coastal physical oceanography. Researchers at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Scripps Institute of Oceanography, Rutgers University and other major oceanographic institutions have utilized a wide array of instruments in their physical oceanographic studies. Ocean gyres are major circulating current systems. The main platforms used in physical oceanography include satellites, research vessels, submersibles, autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), towed vehicles, floats and drifters. Research vessels, submersibles, AUVs, towed vehicles, floats and drifters collect oceanographic data at or below the sea surface.
