A google search under coriolis effect gives a link to 'a fairly simple explanation' by Dave van Domelen. This link gives a reasonable explanation of the apparent coriolis effect involved in weather systems. As I read it it is a case of relative motion, no actual coriolis force involved in the theory, but forces are provided by neighbouring air masses and gravity in practice.
Note: I think he may have made an error in his diagram showing the N-S arow in the southern hemisphere.
Another google search under 'coriolis force gyroscopes' gives a link to 'dictionary meanings' which contains a description of a 'real' coriolis force acting in a mechanical system.
Sorry, I couldn't post working direct links to these sources.
Last edited by bluskis; 3rd Mar 2003 at 07:33.