"Incorporates new names, changes to some older names, and other modifications approved since the third edition (1981)"--Page v.

This book focuses on the survey technology, post-processing technology, mapping technology and scientific application of the submarine topography and geomorphology in detail. High-resolution submarine geomorphology is a frontier branch of marine geology and marine surveying and mapping, which provides a direct basis to study the seabed surface, to understand the tectonic movement and submarine evolution. In the past two decades, high-resolution submarine geomorphology with high-precision multi-beam echo sounding, side-scan sonar and sub-bottom profiler as the major techniques, is developing very quickly and is one of the frontiers of international marine science and technology. These high techniques promote the traditional submarine geomorphology to high-resolution and quantitative research. At present, high-resolution submarine geomorphology is widely used in the delimitation of the continental shelf, the international seabed resources survey, marine engineering and marine military applications. In order to facilitate readers to understand how to acquire and apply scientific research based on submarine topographic data, it highlights the combination of theory, technology and scientific application. This book is useful as a reference for professional and technical personnel in related fields and also as a textbook for both graduate and undergraduate students as well.

The Routledge Handbook of the South China Sea presents a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of South China Sea issues. It evaluates the dynamics of the latest developments and identifies factors that contribute to dispute settlement and a cooperative management regime of one of the most important seas in the world – one which not only contains rich marine resources and distinctive biodiversity but is also a critical sea route for global trade and communications. The Handbook is divided into six parts, each representing a focused area of enquiry: • History and geostrategic landscape • Sovereignty and maritime entitlements • South China Sea policies of major claimants • Natural resources and environment • Cooperation and institutions • Challenges and prospects Written by world-renowned experts and scholars, with specialisms from geography to international law, the volume’s 25 chapters contribute interdisciplinary perspectives, reflecting the impact of how South China Sea policies are shaped by national governments and international organizations. As such, the Handbook provides an authoritative reference to South China Sea Studies, useful for students and scholars of international relations, history, maritime and Asian studies.