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This is an introduction to the sciences of oceanography and meteorology. The use of astronomy to navigate was complimented by the use of the magnetic compass and the sextant and then by satellite navigation techniques. The seafarer's knowledge about wind and ocean currents and the sea-floor gradually developed into the sciences of oceanography and meteorology.
This book is as good as a textbook for years 11, 12 and first year university as it is for general interest. The coverage is broad from hurricanes to Stevenson Screens, from marine sediments to tsunamis all with the emphasis on scientific method. The history and historical figures involved are intertwined with the development of modern analytical instrument. The photography is brilliant and covers the whole globe not just a targeted hemisphere.
There are even links to online videos to bring the topic to life. The questions for assessment of understanding and research focus attention on important learning.
Dr Peter T Scott has spent over 40 years teaching this to enthusiastic students so has a good understanding of what is needed in such a text.
About the author
Peter Scott was born and raised in Sydney. He has written over twenty books including non-fiction on Earth Science, the environment, survival and teaching. In the last few years, he has turned to fiction and has written in a variety of genres, mainly historical adventure and science friction. Graduating from Sydney Teachers' College as a teacher of Middle School Science at the age of nineteen, he later completed part-time studies gaining a Bachelor of Science, Masters Degrees in Science and Educational Administration and finally a Doctorate in Education. He has taught in a varieties of schools and University. During this time, he married and raised a family as well as serving as a Commissioned Officer in the Army Reserve and later an Officer/Instructor and Commanding Officer of an Australian Naval Cadet unit. With some minor sea experience with the Royal Australian Navy, he had six training cruises at sea on board 'Tall Ships', both square- and schooner-rigged. Having travelled extensively to all seven continents, including Antarctica, he has always followed his interests, so his novels often reflect his personal experiences.
