Chaos theory

[spk]

The flapping of a single butterfly's wing today produces a tiny change in the state of the atmosphere. Over a period of time, what the atmosphere actually does diverges from what it would have done. So, in a month's time, a tornado that would have devastated the Indonesian coast doesn't happen. Or maybe one that wasn't going to happen, does.

Any thoughts?

Any thoughts?

[CompNut]

Hi spk in Australia, it is nice to hear from you.

Interesting proposition, and one that we can see being proven all the time, in all kinds of situations, both personal, meteorological, financial - (stocks & commodities) , political (wars etc.) et al.
I suppose the old saying "One thing leads to another" just about sums it all up in the most matter-of-fact way.

I'm sure others will add to this thread with more intelligent thoughts than I, but then I'm just a simple person!

'Bye now, best wishes.

[jno]

it's true; but it's also true that there will have been zillions of other contributing factors. Actually, I think the main factor in the Indonesian tsunami was something to do with tectonic plates. Also, don't think only in terms of 'events' like tornados; from a meteorological standpoint, 'calm air' is also an event that might or might not happen. Everything contributes to everything.

If you watch a film called City of Lost Children, there's a neat illustration of chaos theory that starts with a drop of dew and ends with a ship crashing into a pier.

[CompNut]

jno's facts are very interesting. I want to see that film you mention, so I'll look out for the dvd of it.

I always think that It is awe-inspiring that every random, unpredictable event however tiny has an effect, and in the long term that effect could be either devastating or good.
Scarey thought.

[spk]

Thanks Compnut and Jno- I will definitely watch that movie- its something Ive just started to read about and thought it was quite interesting. I think it can apply to everyday life as well though- every action we have has a reaction. Thanks again and have a nice day !