Marine Engineers

“A toroidal vortex, also called a vortex ring, is a region of rotating fluid moving through the same or different fluid where the flow pattern takes on a toroidal (doughnut) shape. The movement of the fluid is about the poloidal or circular axis of the doughnut, in a twisting vortex motion. Examples of this phenomenon are a smoke ring or a microburst. Vortex rings were first mathematically analysed by the German physicist Hermann von Helmholtz, in his paper of 1867 On Integrals of the Hydrodynamical Equations which Express Vortex-motion Smoke rings have probably been observed since antiquity since they can easily be blown from the mouth.”

Some incredible footage of marine mammals playing with bubble rings, also known as toroidal vortices. Are dolphins and whales much smarter than most people give them credit for? Probably.

I guess I was so eager to begin writing that I completely forgot to introduce myself. Well hello there. My name is Sean and I’m a reef addict. There. I’ve admitted it. Let’s continue around the circle and talk about our problems.

I seem to have always been had interest marine life. I can recall living in Virginia Beach as a child and playing in the ocean waves. The bitter taste of salt in my mouth. Digging in the sand for baby horseshoe crabs, and building sandcastles. The itchy feeling of sand on my feet as we drove home. I’m sure this is a fond memory for many of you who live along the coast, or have done so at one point or another.

continue reading…