From Deep Sea to Laboratory 1

Book excerpt: The scientific expedition of H.M.S. Challenger in the 1870s marks the starting point of physical oceanography. This ship traveled the seas of the globe pursuing a dual objective: to conduct an in-depth study of animal life and to observe the physical properties of ocean waters. Volume 1, richly illustrated, relates the expedition of the Challenger and addresses the problems of measuring the great depths. A theoretical approach to the immersion velocity of a probe is also proposed, as well as a presentation of some results of bathymetric surveys and physical observations made by the Challenger scientists. From Deep Sea to Laboratory is available in three volumes for curious readers drawn to travel, history and science. Students, researchers and teachers of physics, fluid mechanics and oceanography will find material to deepen their knowledge.