Coriolis Velocity Calculator

Coriolis Velocity Equation:

\[ v_{cor} = 2 \omega \sin \phi \cdot u \]

Coriolis Velocity (v_cor):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Coriolis Velocity?

The Coriolis velocity represents the apparent deflection of moving objects when viewed in a rotating reference frame, such as Earth. It's a crucial concept in meteorology, oceanography, and physics.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Coriolis velocity equation:

\[ v_{cor} = 2 \omega \sin \phi \cdot u \]

Where:

\( v_{cor} \) — Coriolis velocity (m/s)
\( \omega \) — Angular velocity of rotation (rad/s)
\( \phi \) — Latitude angle (degrees)
\( u \) — Velocity of the moving object (m/s)

Explanation: The equation accounts for the deflection effect caused by Earth's rotation on moving objects.

3. Importance of Coriolis Velocity

Details: Understanding Coriolis velocity is essential for predicting weather patterns, ocean currents, and the trajectory of long-range projectiles.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter angular velocity in rad/s (Earth's is ~7.29×10^-5 rad/s), latitude in degrees (-90 to 90), and velocity in m/s. All values must be valid.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's Earth's angular velocity?
A: Earth's angular velocity is approximately 7.2921150 × 10^-5 radians per second.

Q2: Why does latitude matter?
A: The Coriolis effect is strongest at the poles (where sinφ = ±1) and zero at the equator (where sinφ = 0).

Q3: What are typical applications?
A: Used in weather forecasting, ocean current modeling, and ballistics calculations.

Q4: Does this account for all Coriolis effects?
A: This calculates the horizontal deflection component. Full 3D analysis requires additional terms.

Q5: How significant is this effect?
A: For everyday objects it's negligible, but becomes significant for large-scale or long-duration movements.