The Oceans are a complex system. They interact with the Earth's other systems—the atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, and biosphere—to form a dynamic planet.

The oceans and atmosphere formed primarily from gasses trapped deep in the Earth that were released by volcanic activity.

Evidence shows that life may have begun in the oceans. Early photosynthetic bacteria played a key role in creating an oxygen-rich atmosphere.

Ocean basins are created by plate tectonic activity (the movement of rigid plates across Earth's surface).

The unique properties of the water molecule have remarkable implications for regulation of the Earth's temperature and climate and for supporting life.

The ocean is a layered and circulating system. Surface currents are driven by winds, while deep-water circulation is driven by changes in water density. Both interact with the atmosphere to shape climate.

New technologies—such as deep-ocean observatories, ocean-going robots, satellites, and rock cores from the sea floor—are giving oceanographers a first look at many ocean and atmospheric processes.

The oceans and the solid Earth interact to support life in extreme environments.

The Earth's growing population is putting a great strain on ocean resources.