The interaction between atmosphere and oceans is a crucial link in the climate system as it represents the interface between the dominating spheres. Exchange of momentum, heat, humidity as well as carbon dioxide influences the energy, water and carbon cycles in the atmosphere as well as the ocean.

The friction imposed by waves influence turbulence generation and properties in the atmosphere and ocean. Exchange of heat and water influences stratification in the atmosphere and secondary parameters as cloud formation and precipitation. In the ocean the depth of the mixed layer is strongly influences by the air-water heat exchange.

Air-water exchange of CO₂ of course influences the atmospheric concentration, but more importantly also processes in oceans and lakes including acidification and biogeochemical cycles. Properties of the air-water interface also is of significant importance for other constituents (like for example methane).

The purpose of AWEP is to use different methods to increase our understanding of air-water exchange processes. This includes taking measurements, developing measuring techniques and using models. We are deriving methods of describing these processes in models and evaluating the importance in different types of models and applications.