What are vortices

A vortex is a region of fluid flow in which motion circulates around an axis or center. Vortices occur in liquids and gases, from small swirls to large atmospheric systems.

How it works

Rotation may arise from boundaries, pressure differences, turbulence, or interactions among flows. The details depend on the fluid’s properties and the forces acting on it.

Example or application

A whirlpool is a visible example in water; smoke rings and cyclones also involve organized rotation, though their scale and dynamics differ greatly.

Scope and limits

A vortex is not necessarily a perfect funnel or a stable structure. The term covers many flow patterns, and a specific case requires measurements or a physical model.

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