We present a pedagogical discussion of the Coriolis field, emphasizing its not-so-well-understood aspects. We show that this field satisfies the field equations of the so-called Newton–Cartan theory, a generalization of Newtonian gravity that is covariant under changes of arbitrarily rotating and accelerated frames. Examples of solutions of this theory are given, including the Newtonian analogue of the Gödel universe. We discuss how to detect the Coriolis field by its effect on gyroscopes, of which the gyrocompass is an example. Finally, using a similar framework, we discuss the Coriolis field generated by mass currents in general relativity, and its measurement by the gravity probe B and LAGEOS/LARES experiments.

Topics
Magnetic properties, Electromagnetism, Gyroscope, Coriolis effects, General relativity, Lenses, Educational assessment, Newtonian gravity, Fluid drag, Astronauts
© 2016 American Association of Physics Teachers.
2016
American Association of Physics Teachers
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