What term is used to describe the circular patterns created by wake turbulence?

The term that describes the circular patterns created by wake turbulence is "vortices." In aviation, vortices are created when an aircraft generates lift, resulting in the formation of rotating air masses trailing behind the wings. These vortices can pose significant hazards to following aircraft, especially during takeoff and landing phases. Understanding the nature of vortices helps pilots and air traffic controllers mitigate the risks associated with wake turbulence, ensuring safer flight operations.

The other terms, while related to air movement, do not specifically refer to the phenomenon of wake turbulence. Air currents refer generally to movements of air in the atmosphere without the specific swirling pattern. Turbulence zones could describe areas of irregular air movement but lack the specificity of vortex formations. Whirlwinds typically imply localized weather phenomena like dust devils and are not directly associated with aircraft wake.