The Upper Ocean - a collection of articles from the Encyclopedia of Ocean Sciences, 2 nd Edition - reflects the trend toward the interdisciplinary study of oceanography, which integrates the disciplines of biology, chemistry, geology and physics. The upper ocean's contact with the atmosphere profoundly impacts climate, making this reference both timely and critical. The selection of articles - all written by experts in their field - focuses on Air-Sea Transfers; Air-Sea Chemical Exchanges and Cycles; The Sea Surface, Waves and Upper Ocean Processes; Upper Ocean Circulation and Structure; Plankton; Ice; and Measurement Techniques including Remote Sensing. Articles reference other sources on the upper ocean to facilitate further research Richly illustrated with figures and tables that aid in understanding key concepts Includes an introductory overview and then explores each topic in detail, making it useful to experts and graduate-level researchers Topical arrangement makes it the perfect desk reference