A common job of a mathematicians and statisticians is to make predictions. However, is it possible to predict everything? Can mankind predict the perfect outcome of the stock market? the next worldwide pandemic? what about predicting tomorrow's weather? Despite how much information and data is provided, some systems are seemingly impossible to predict. These systems tend to be nonlinear, dynamic systems. Predictions in the immediate future are more accurate, but the accuracy of predicting the true outcome diminishes over time. A tiny change in one variable could cause a completely different result. However, an overarching pattern can be seen for many of these systems. This ties into a theory known as Chaos Theory.
Chaos Theory is relatively new, as it was discovered in the 20th century due to the invention of computers. Chaos Theory is defined as a "branch of mathematics that deals with complex systems whose behavior is highly sensitive to slight changes in conditions, so that small alterations can give rise to strikingly great consequences.1" Chaos Theory does not entail disorder or confusion. Rather, "Chaos explores the transitions between order and disorder.2"
Here, we will discover more about the history, applications, patterns, and mathematics behind Chaos Theory.
On the left are a list of links of Applications of Chaos Theory to the real world. Select one to continue your path of discovery.
Happy Exploring!!!
