The Coriolis Effect (or force) is a subject that is often confusing to
students. The Coriolis Effect is the effect of earth rotation on the
direction (and path) of the wind. Use the following sites to help you understand how the Coriolis effect works:
- Observe an animation of the Coriolis effect over Earth’s surface. (Exploring Earth)
- Observe how the Coriolis effect influences wind direction. (Exploring Earth)
- “Getting Around The Coriolis Force” (David J. Van Domelen)
- Shoot a cannon at a ship to see the Coriolis effect at work.
There are a number of incorrect perceptions about the Coriolis effect, like the reversal of water movement stepping over the equator. This “bad meteorology” is addressed here.
