Answering a Reader’s Questions As posted last week, the Coriolis Effect steers the winds and ocean currents around the globe in huge spiral patterns, all because our Earth spins. A reader asked who discovered this pattern in nature and wanted to know what happens at the equator. Does the prevailing north counterclockwise and south clockwise… Continue reading The Coriolis Effect
Category: Physics
Unmasking the Coriolis Effect:
An Invisible Influence on Wind and Water You have probably heard of the Coriolis Effect. It’s a rather cool concept in Earth science that might seem like magic, but it’s all about physics. This invisible force explains why hurricanes spin and why long-distance pilots have to be careful about their flight paths. I used to… Continue reading Unmasking the Coriolis Effect:
What is a Fata Morgana?
In 1880, Prince George of Wales, the future king of England, then in his teens, saw it during a sea voyage. As he wrote in his journal, “July 11th. At 4 a.m., the Flying Dutchman [the legendary ghost ship] crossed our bows. A strange red light as of a phantom ship all aglow… stood out… Continue reading What is a Fata Morgana?
STEM & Creative Change 