Summary
Swirling flow patterns known as vortices arise whenever air or water moves past structures such as bridges, aircraft wings, buildings, and underwater vehicles. While these motions can sometimes be useful, for example by improving mixing or ventilation, they often create serious challenges. Vortices can increase drag on vehicles, generate loud noise, and cause damaging vibrations that shorten the lifespan of infrastructure. Being able to anticipate and precisely control these swirling motions would allow engineers to design safer bridges, more efficient airplanes, quieter communities, and more
