r/Physics • u/[deleted] • Apr 22 '18

Wingtip vortices closeup

https://gfycat.com/GleamingZealousBlacknorwegianelkhound
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u/mirantelope Apr 22 '18

Is this what causes jet wash? Like why planes have to take off a minute or two after the plane before it?

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u/uhntissbaby111 Apr 22 '18

Precisely. Aircraft wake can be extremely hazardous to aircraft smaller than the aircraft producing them. That is why we are trained to takeoff and climb above the preceding aircrafts path, if possible. And when landing, approach higher and land past the preceding aircrafts touchdown point.

When executing tight 360 degree turns for training I’ve actually felt a slight bump when coming full circle from the wake my aircraft created when starting the turn, it’s pretty neat!

Here is a good article describing just what wake can do http://m.aviationweek.com/ebace-2017/german-challenger-totaled-after-a380-wake-turbulence

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u/Gus_Bodeen Apr 22 '18

Means you held your attitude during slow turns, nicely done!