The ocean characterises planet Earth and differentiates it from the more than 5000 known
planets. It is also the habitat where life emerged as a singularity in the universe. However
we know less about the oceans than we do about some remote planets such as Mars. This book
provides basic facts for understanding the oceans their properties and their importance to
mankind through the ages. The long relationship between the ocean and humanity which permeates
all areas of our culture is at a crossroads where human activity is profoundly affecting its
functioning and the integrity of marine ecosystems. However the intelligent and rational use
of the ocean holds in large part the key to providing the resources needed to sustain our
quality of life in the future. Unlocking through scientific research the secrets that the
ocean still holds is an essential challenge for humanity. This book informs the reader about
all these aspects of the ocean through a text that combines scientific rigour with personal
reflections based on the author's own experiences dedicated to exploring and learning more
about the ocean.
