von Kármán vortex street

A von Kármán vortex street is a pattern of swirling vortices that form downstream of an obstacle, like a bridge pier or a cylinder in a flow, such as wind or water. When fluid flows past the obstacle, alternating regions of turbulence and calm create a repeating chain of swirling vortices on each side. These vortices are shed alternately, resulting in a rhythmic, street-like pattern of flow. This phenomenon helps scientists understand fluid behavior around objects, influences engineering designs to reduce vibrations, and explains natural occurrences like the oscillation of flags or the movement of wakes behind ships.