A physical oceanographer is a scientist who studies the ocean’s physical properties. This includes learning about the waves, temperatures, and current patterns, among other things. It usually includes the investigation of the relationship between the ocean’s water and the environment above and below the waves.
The impact of the ocean on its surroundings is a popular topic of research. This usually refers to how the water interacts with the coastline in order to transport sand to and from the beach. The problem of erosion is particularly concerning, as it has an impact on both human habitation and the natural environment. A physical oceanographer might collaborate with land developers or planners to avoid putting homes, buildings, or other developments in areas where the ocean could destroy them.
Climate change is another topic of interest. This type of scientist is particularly interested in how the ocean and its currents affect the climate both near and inland. Hurricanes and typhoons are of particular interest, but so are calmer weather conditions. The relationship between oceanic conditions and land temperatures and rainfall is a key aspect of the field. Physical oceanographers are always trying to figure out how sea conditions affect flood and drought conditions on land.
As a rule, this scientist isn’t interested in studying marine life unless it has to do with how the ocean’s animals and plants interact with the physical environment. Sea mounts, underwater volcanoes, earthquakes, and anything else that affects the ocean floor has an impact on the animals that live there. A physical oceanographer might collaborate with marine biologists or other scientists who study marine life to figure out how such events affect the lives of sea creatures.
A physical oceanographer typically employs a variety of instruments to investigate the ocean’s physical characteristics. It is critical that he or she be able to operate a variety of devices. These can be used to measure current depth and speed, sea floor changes, wind speeds over or near the ocean, and ocean temperature in various locations.
Although some of these scientists work solely in laboratories, the majority of them do not. In these cases, a physical oceanographer works from the shore or from ships and boats to place instruments that will aid in the expansion of existing knowledge. After that, it’s up to the oceanographer to interpret the data collected by the instruments.