Physics 2210 Classical Mechanics and Math Methods

Instructors: Steven Pollock, Ana Maria Rey, and Rachel Pepper

   

In non-inertial reference frames, "fictitious forces" are invoked to make Newton's 2nd law work as though one were in an inertial frame. In a rotating system, the Coriolis force generates a sideways force on moving objects. The effect is often subtle, but in large systems (like hurricanes), it can play an important role. The direction of rotation of the hurricane is complicated - in the Northern Hemisphere, the Coriolis force pushes air flow clockwise, but the low pressure at the center of the hurricane results in the CCW pattern seen from space. (Images from Wikipedia, red arrows show the Coriolis force, blue arrows are from the pressure gradient) Here's a classic video showing the Coriolis effect on a merry go round.


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Older 2210 main pages:
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I welcome your comments on the class and this website. Send them to steven.pollock at colorado.edu