Hi luke:
Particles whose density is less than water(ice, styrofoam blocks, etc.) will NOT settle, regardless of whether or not we have vortex or water movement. So I hope we are on the same page and discuss the particles whose density is greater than that of the fluid(water in this case).
I sent you a PM, think about what I said.
You can try a little experiment, put some sands of different sizes/masses(approximately equal density but denser than water) in a big bucket of water, swirl the heck out of it until EVERYTHING is being suspended by water. You will notice that the surface of the water is lowest at center and highest near the bucket's surface. Then let the water settle and you can see a distribution of particles of different masses(with ~equal density).
I am willing to learn something new on how things work, so please educate me.
It would not be the first time that I had misconception of physics, and I am sure that this would not be my last.
Oh luke, before moving to Puyallup, WA. I used to work for Harris and lived in Melbourne/Palm Bay, just across the river from you.
