Re: whirlpools

First whirlpools...or vortices! The phenomena is due
to earth's rotational influence called "Coriollis
Effect". As water drains, it generates suction
greater than the undisturbed flow allows. Cavitation
results, sucking lighter air as soon as the water
surface tension breaks down. Something like starving
a suction pump. The direction of rotation is opposite
in north and south hemispheres. Vines too are influ-
enced by coriollis. Look at vines spiraling the trees
they all coil upwards in the same spiral. North is
right hand with thumb up! South is opposite. On the
equator it can go either way.

Hot springs: this is caused by earth's interior heat
that circulates this water by convection. Hot water
is lighter so it rises while cool water sinks. Some
spectacular show is at Yellowstone Nat Park. There
geisers puff out water and steam periodically indi-
cating longer return path.

If I can answer more email to d_micro@ix.netcom.com
:) MAD.SCIENTIST.Micro