Moving into a Rotating Frame of Reference, the Taylor–Proudman Theorem, and the Formation of Taylor Columns

Abstract

Abstract In this chapter, we discuss some of the simplest, but fundamental, consequences of imposing a strong background rotation on a fluid. The topics covered include the Coriolis force, the Rossby and Ekman numbers, geostrophic force balances, the Taylor–Proudman theorem, Taylor columns, and the hidden role of waves in forming Taylor columns. The emphasis throughout is on developing simple (but important) physical ideas with the minimum of mathematical detail. Many of these concepts are surprisingly subtle, especially the notion of quasi-geostrophic flow and of the importance of inertial waves in the formation of Taylor columns and other quasi-geostrophic structures.