Potential density
Potential density is a dynamically important property: for static stability potential density must decrease upward. If it doesn't, a fluid parcel displaced upward finds itself lighter than its neighbors, and continues to move upward; similarly, a fluid parcel displaced downward would be heavier than its neighbors. This is true even if the density of the fluid decreases upward. In stable conditions (potential density decreasing upward) motion along surfaces of constant potential density (isopycnals) is energetically favored over flow across these surfaces (diapycnal flow), so most of the motion within a 3-D geophysical fluid takes place along these 2-D surfaces.
Fluid dynamic gauge
A fluid dynamic gauge (FDG) is a measurement technique used to study the behaviour of soft deposit layers in a liquid environment. It employs fluid mechanics to determine the thickness of the layer, and can also be used to obtain a measure of its strength. It was inspired by the technique of pneumatic gauging, which relies on a flow of air rather than the process liquid. Fluid dynamic gauging can be conducted as an in-line measuring technique, but is more commonly used as a research tool.