🌍 Coriolis Effect Calculator
Calculate the Coriolis acceleration experienced by an object moving across Earth’s surface, based on its speed and latitude.
m/s
°
What the Coriolis effect is
The Coriolis effect is an apparent deflection of moving objects (like wind, ocean currents, or projectiles) caused by Earth’s rotation, viewed from a rotating reference frame such as the Earth’s surface. It’s strongest at the poles and zero at the equator.
The formula
The Coriolis acceleration is a = 2ωv·sin(φ), where ω is Earth’s angular velocity (7.2921159 × 10⁻⁵ rad/s), v is the object’s speed relative to Earth’s surface, and φ is the latitude. The Coriolis parameter f = 2ωsin(φ) is often used directly in meteorology and oceanography.
This calculator is for general physics and earth-science education.
Last reviewed August 2026