1. What is the Coriolis Effect?

The Coriolis effect is an apparent deflection of moving objects when viewed in a rotating reference frame, such as Earth. It affects large-scale phenomena like ocean currents and weather patterns, as well as projectile motion.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Coriolis deflection equation:

Where:

• \( \omega \) — Earth's angular velocity (7.29×10⁻⁵ rad/s)
• \( \phi \) — Latitude in degrees
• \( d \) — Horizontal distance traveled (m)
• \( v \) — Velocity of the moving object (m/s)

Explanation: The equation calculates the lateral deflection due to Earth's rotation, which is greatest at the poles (φ = ±90°) and zero at the equator (φ = 0°).

3. Importance of Coriolis Calculation

Details: Understanding Coriolis deflection is crucial for long-range ballistics, atmospheric science, oceanography, and any application involving motion over large distances on Earth.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter Earth's angular velocity (default is correct for Earth), latitude (-90° to 90°), distance traveled, and velocity. All values must be positive (except latitude which can be negative for southern hemisphere).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does the Coriolis effect occur?
A: It results from Earth's rotation causing different linear velocities at different latitudes, creating an apparent deflection of moving objects.

Q2: How significant is the Coriolis effect?
A: For everyday objects it's negligible, but becomes significant for large-scale or long-duration motions like weather systems or long-range artillery.

Q3: Does the Coriolis effect make water swirl differently in sinks?
A: This is a common misconception - the effect is too small to influence small-scale water drainage.

Q4: What's Earth's angular velocity?
A: Approximately 7.29×10⁻⁵ rad/s (2π radians per sidereal day).

Q5: How does latitude affect the Coriolis effect?
A: The effect is strongest at the poles and zero at the equator, proportional to the sine of the latitude.