Atmosphere and Ocean Interactions

The nature and extent of the main interactions between the Earth’s atmosphere and the ocean are briefy reviewed, introducing the main properties of these two planetary systems, the hierarchy of timescales and spatial scales characterizing their processes, and the main mechanisms involved. To clarify these mechanisms, a few examples of exchanges of momentum, energy, and mass exchanges are briefy outlined. The paper aims at stimulating students to discover the fascinating interplay among two of the most relevant components of our planet, such as the atmosphere and the ocean, and suggests resources for further exploration.