Physical Oceanography of Continental Shelves

An authoritative graduate textbook and professional reference on the physical dynamics of the coastal ocean

This book provides an up-to-date, systematic treatment of the processes governing the velocity, pressure, temperature, and salinity of the coastal ocean. Written by a leading expert with decades of experience with theory, observations, and numerical models, it builds on the idea that knowledge of fundamental phenomena allows for an understanding of continental shelf waters globally. Featuring a wealth of ocean observations from a wide variety of locales, Physical Oceanography of Continental Shelves is an essential resource for both students and researchers on this critical region of the world’s oceans.




Covers the physical dynamics and properties of the coastal ocean, synthesizing theory and global observations
Topics include turbulent boundary layers, wind driving, coastal-trapped waves, the inner shelf, tides, buoyancy currents, instabilities, and connections with the deep open ocean
Ideal for graduate students in physical oceanography
Includes exercises to strengthen understanding and draws on the author’s experience teaching the subject
A must for oceanographers and engineers seeking a comprehensive synthesis of continental shelf processes