vortex theory
The 'vortex theory' encompasses various historical and scientific concepts that explain natural phenomena through the dynamics of vortices or circular motion.
🇺🇸 US Voice:
🇬🇧 UK Voice:
Definition
C2Celestial Mechanics
(historical, obsolete)A 17th-century hypothesis by René Descartes suggesting that celestial bodies move within a system of fluid vortices.
Example
- René Descartes' vortex theory was an early attempt to describe planetary motion before Newton's laws of gravity.
C2Atomic Structure
(historical, obsolete)A 19th-century theory by Lord Kelvin proposing that atoms are vortically moving ring-shaped structures within a frictionless fluid.
Example
- Lord Kelvin's vortex theory aimed to explain atomic behavior through fluid dynamics.
C1Metaphorical
(informal)A figurative use describing a situation of chaos or central influence.
Example
- The lyrics of the song were interpreted through a vortex theory, symbolizing the chaos in the protagonist's life.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "vortex theory":