How a Butterfly’s Wingbeat CAN Change the Weather

The video explores the butterfly effect, a concept where small changes can lead to significant outcomes, particularly in weather systems. It traces the history of weather prediction, highlighting the challenges of fluid dynamics and the role of computers in solving differential equations. Edward Lorenz's discovery of the sensitivity of initial conditions led to the development of chaos theory, which applies to various systems beyond weather. Despite advancements in technology and understanding, predicting weather remains complex due to chaos theory's inherent unpredictability.

What is the butterfly effect and how does it relate to weather prediction?

Describe Edward Lorenz's discovery regarding initial conditions in weather simulations.

How did Lorenz illustrate the concept of the butterfly effect in his lecture?

What are some examples of systems where chaos theory is applicable?

In what ways has weather prediction improved in recent decades according to the text?