Vortex dynamics encompasses the study of rotating fluid structures that span scales from centimetre-sized eddies in engineering applications to kilometre-scale systems in the atmosphere and oceans.

Vortex-induced vibrations (VIV) occur when fluid flows past a bluff body and alternately sheds vortices from its sides, generating periodic transverse forces that can excite structural oscillations.

The subject of vortices might seem esoteric. But their impact does make headlines, as seen recently in an outbreak of tornadoes, swirling vortices that killed at least 80 people across eight U.S.