Evidence status
Educational draft: initial reading does not replace academic and community review.
Currents as vectors
Current velocity has a magnitude and direction. If θ is defined as the angle between flow and a surface normal, the normal component may be represented as v × cos θ. The angle convention must be made explicit.
Why the model is limited
A simple vector component does not predict frame failure, net loads, fish behaviour or catch quantities. Real marine conditions are considerably more complex.
A safe miniature experiment
Use food colouring or small floating objects in a shallow tray with a controlled flow. Change a paper barrier angle, record movement and explain measurement uncertainty.
Learning question
What is actually supported by local sources, and what still requires direct investigation?