Today, oceanography is concerned with the study of everything related to seas and oceans from physical perspectives, such as water movements, winds, energy exchange between the atmosphere and the sea, and other diverse chemical aspects. It also encompasses biological aspects, encompassing the organisms that live in the sea, their environment, distribution, behavior, and the relationships that govern them. Geological studies include the historical structure of the seas, their origins, and their relationship to the Earth's crust, the topography of the seabed, and marine sediments. This requires reference to studies of terrestrial nature to understand the processes that govern the formation of ocean floors and the movement of continents.
The world today looks with optimism at the seas and oceans that cover two-thirds of the Earth's surface. In addition to controlling the Earth's climate and making it a habitable planet, they also offer new horizons for protein wealth that contribute to providing food for the world's population. The seas contain mines of heavy metals and salts, and they contain energy in addition to petroleum. The world is currently exploring the possibility of harnessing this energy. This is in addition to using the seas to transport trade and goods and as a source of fresh water in arid regions. In addition, the seas and their beaches are considered places for recreation, sports, and tourism.