vast quantities of data far beyond that available a decade ago, and the 
newer computers permit systematic analysis of these data and facilitate 
study of matematical models by integration of governing differential 
equations. A consequence of these new capabilities in data processing 
and analysis is that quantitative determinations are beginning to re- 
place qualitative and intuitive accounts which characterized geophysi- 
cal sciences a few years ago. For example, direct measurement of 
vertical flux and wind stress can now be made by spectral analysis of 
fluctuations. New insights into the mechanism of nonlinear coupling, 
made possible by computer technology, have contributed significantly 
to theories of wave generation and motions of a variety of scales. 
These developments in observational techniques, data processing, 
and interpretation have proved to be equally valuable in studies of the 
oceans, atmosphere, and solid earth. A strong coupling of research 
among various fields of geophysics exists. There is a basic com- 
monality in observational platforms, techniques of analysis and under- 
lying theory. A fruitful idea in one field is likely to be equally 
profitable in other geophysical fields. Thus, broadly trained, creative 
scientists may provide crucial leadership in several fields simultane- 
ously. 
A close connection also exists between geophysical and biological 
problems, despite the fact that these connections have often been over- 
looked. Certain regions owe their great biological productivity to 
subtle combinations of chemical and physical processes which vitally 
need to be understood. Oceanographers are well aware of the im- 
portance of these relationships, and in the future we see a closer rela- 
tionship between biological and physical studies of the sea. This 
will be especially important as modification of the environment. be- 
comes more widespread (see sec. 3). 
Our new abilities to observe and interpret the environment have 
brought within the range of reasonable possibility a number of major 
scientific and technological enterprises. These require increased un- 
derstanding of the functioning of systems far more complex than 
those which can be studied in the laboratory. Consequently, there 
are of the highest intrinsic scientific interest, as well as of great 
practical importance. 
6.2. PREDICTION 
We are in the very early stages of developing the capability for 
ocean prediction. Until World War II ocean predictions were limited 
to truly periodic phenomena whose mechanism was clearly under- 
stood—tides and seasons. Tidal predictions are still imperfect, and 
improvements based on more complete treatment of nonlinear effects 
and transients associated with surface winds and pressure are within 
reach. 
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