Iron Vortices
Although most people are unaware, vortices surround us! Here at Cornell University, wrought iron work adorning the windows of Uris Library portrays the magnificent beauty and symmetry of vortex patterns. Uris Library opened in 1891 as Cornell’s first library building. Designed by Henry W. Miller, a famous Cornellian whose style of architecture was greatly favored at the time, this library garnered national acclaim for its combination of beauty and utility. (source: CU Library Gateway)
Today, the building's aesthetics continue to appeal. At night, it is especially remarkable to see the contrast of light shining through the iron work, framing the students studying below. But, for those familiar with vortex-induced vibrations, the patterns take on a new meaning; one can observe in the iron work vortex formation modes induced in the wake of bodies. Can you idenify the various modes shown?
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