A vortex is a flow pattern in fluids where the fluid moves in a circular motion around a central axis. This phenomenon can be observed in various natural occurrences, such as whirlpools in water or tornadoes in the atmosphere. The movement creates a low-pressure area at the center, drawing in surrounding fluid. Vortices can also be found in man-made systems, like the design of certain aircraft wings or turbines. Understanding vortices is important in fields like meteorology, engineering, and oceanography, as they influence weather patterns, energy efficiency, and marine navigation.