Innenwirbel

Innenwirbel is the German term for a type of whirlpool or vortex that forms within a body of water, often in oceanic or lake environments. These formations occur when a mass of water spins rapidly around a central axis, creating a constricted area where water is drawn in and then expelled.

Innenwirbel are most commonly observed in the wake of a ship or a diver, where the movement of the propeller or the waves caused by the sinking person create an area of low pressure. As the water rushes in to fill this void, it begins to spin, forming a swirling current that can be several meters in diameter.

The formation of Innenwirbel is influenced by a variety of factors, including the speed and direction of the diver or vessel, the depth and clarity of the water, and the presence of obstacles or features on the seafloor. In some cases, Innenwirbel can be quite strong, drawing in debris and larger objects that can become trapped in the swirling current.

In recreational diving, Innenwirbel are often taken into account when navigating underwater. Divers are advised to approach slowly and cautiously to avoid disturbing the water and triggering the formation of a whirlpool. In scientific research, the study of Innenwirbel has contributed to a better understanding of ocean currents and the dynamics of water movement.