Ekman layer
Term · Meteorology and atmospheric science · MLC-T-MET-005297
A layer of fluid, either in the ocean or atmosphere, where the balance between the Coriolis force, pressure gradient force, and turbulent friction determines the velocity profile. In the atmosphere, it is the lowest part of the planetary boundary layer where surface friction significantly influences the wind direction and speed. The wind within this layer typically veers with height, forming an Ekman spiral.
| Identifier | MLC-T-MET-005297 |
|---|---|
| Field | Meteorology and atmospheric science |
| Synonyms | spiral layer |
| See also | Atmospheric boundary layer |
Record as JSON
{
"id": "MLC-T-MET-005297",
"term": "Ekman layer",
"field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
"definition": "A layer of fluid, either in the ocean or atmosphere, where the balance between the Coriolis force, pressure gradient force, and turbulent friction determines the velocity profile. In the atmosphere, it is the lowest part of the planetary boundary layer where surface friction significantly influences the wind direction and speed. The wind within this layer typically veers with height, forming an Ekman spiral.",
"synonyms": [
"spiral layer"
],
"see_also": [
"atmospheric boundary layer"
],
"url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/ekman-layer/"
}
Record 3,113 of 10,816 in Meteorology and atmospheric science terminology (MLC-0110). Request the full dataset.