What is the Coriolis Force and How Does it Affect Driving Direction?

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SUMMARY

The Coriolis force affects driving direction in the Northern Hemisphere by acting 90 degrees to the right of the vector of motion. For instance, when driving from San Francisco to New York, there is a southward force, while driving from New York to San Francisco results in a northward force. This phenomenon is a result of the Earth's rotation, causing land features to turn counter-clockwise when viewed from a stationary point in space above. Understanding this concept is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of motion on a rotating planet.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly forces.
  • Familiarity with the Earth's rotation and its effects on motion.
  • Knowledge of vector analysis and directionality.
  • Basic comprehension of reference frames in physics.
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  • Research the mathematical formulation of the Coriolis effect in physics.
  • Explore real-world applications of the Coriolis force in meteorology.
  • Learn about the impact of the Coriolis force on ocean currents.
  • Investigate how the Coriolis effect influences aviation and navigation.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, meteorologists, and anyone interested in understanding the implications of the Coriolis force on motion and navigation in the Northern Hemisphere.

ImaLooser
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I read that in the northern hemisphere the Coriolis force is always 90 degrees to the right of the vector of motion in the rotating frame. That is, driving from SF to NY there is a force to the south, driving from NY to SF there is a force to the north. OK, pseudoforce, whatever. I don't understand. Anyone have a simple explanation for the nudnik?
 
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mfb said:
Is that simple enough?
If not, which part is unclear?

Aha.

When viewed from a stationary point in space above, any land feature in the Northern Hemisphere turns counter-clockwise, and, fixing our gaze on that location, any other location in that hemisphere will rotate around it the same way.

Now I get it.
 

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