Mathematics of the butterfly effect

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the mathematical concepts underpinning the butterfly effect, specifically chaos theory and non-linear dynamics. Participants confirm that these frameworks explain how small changes in initial conditions can lead to vastly different outcomes in complex systems. The conversation also touches on the idea of limits within these systems, questioning whether there exists a threshold beyond which events are no longer influenced by the initiating event.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of chaos theory
  • Familiarity with non-linear dynamics
  • Basic knowledge of mathematical modeling
  • Concept of initial conditions in systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research advanced topics in chaos theory
  • Explore mathematical modeling techniques in non-linear dynamics
  • Study the implications of initial conditions on system behavior
  • Investigate real-world applications of the butterfly effect in various fields
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, physicists, and anyone interested in the implications of chaos theory and non-linear dynamics in complex systems.

ComputerGeek
Messages
383
Reaction score
0
What are some of the mathematical concepts used in the idea of the butterfly effect? Is there any thought that such a system would have a limit at which point all events beyond said limit are not considered part of the system designated by the initiating event?

thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
It is called chaos theory or non-linear dynamics.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 89 ·
3
Replies
89
Views
20K
  • · Replies 61 ·
3
Replies
61
Views
11K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K