Ekman Layer Dynamics and Concepts

The video tutorial explores the effects of viscosity in rotating flows, focusing on how viscosity disrupts geostrophic balance. It begins with an explanation of geostrophic flow and the Coriolis effect, then delves into the dynamics of viscous boundary layers. The tutorial derives equations to describe flow within these layers, introducing the concept of the Ekman spiral. It concludes with a discussion on the Ekman layer's applications, including a lab demonstration showing its effects in a rotating tank.

What is the primary mechanism for introducing momentum into a rotating fluid?

• Pressure gradient

• Viscosity at boundaries

• Temperature difference

• Coriolis effect

In a geostrophic flow, what balances the Coriolis acceleration?

• Viscous forces

• Pressure gradient

• Temperature gradient

• Magnetic field

What happens to the velocity in the viscous boundary layer near a horizontal boundary?

• It increases

• It oscillates

• It remains constant

• It decreases

What mathematical tool is introduced to help solve the boundary layer equations?

• Fourier transform

• Matrix algebra

• Differential equations

• Complex variable

What is the Ekman spiral a result of?

• Viscosity in geostrophic flow

• Temperature gradients

• Magnetic fields

• Centrifugal forces

Who proposed the theory of the Ekman layer?

• Albert Einstein

• Galileo Galilei

• Isaac Newton

• Vagn Walfrid Ekman

What is the characteristic shape of the flow in the Ekman layer?

• Circular

• Random

• Linear

• Spiral

At what angle is the flow adjacent to the boundary in the Ekman layer?

• 30 degrees

• 45 degrees

• 60 degrees

• 90 degrees

What effect does speeding up the tank rotation have in the lab demonstration?

• No effect

• Outward transport

• Inward transport

• Random movement

What is the orientation of the transport in the Ekman layer relative to the radius?

• Parallel

• Perpendicular

• 45 degrees

• 90 degrees