Jack Whitehead, in the
Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Lab he helped establish at
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, sets up experiments to understand
the formation of gyres or swirling, circular currents. Experiments like
this can effectively simplify complicated processes down to the
fundamental forces of physics that generate them. In this case, colored
dyes help track the flow of distinct water masses on a rotating table,
which simulates the force caused by Earth's rotation. Knowing where and
why gyres form
helps researchers better understand this facet of ocean circulation and,
among other things, to track the movements of fish, submarines, and
spilled pollutants within them.
(Photo By Tom Kleindinst, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)
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