Vortex formation occurs when a fluid, such as air or water, moves in a circular motion around a central axis. This can happen when an object moves through the fluid, creating low-pressure areas that draw the surrounding fluid into a spiral. Common examples include whirlpools in water and tornadoes in the atmosphere. The process is influenced by factors like fluid velocity, viscosity, and the shape of the object causing the disturbance. In nature, vortex formation plays a crucial role in weather patterns and ocean currents, affecting climate and ecosystems globally.