Butterfly effect/chaos theory?

Question

how does this actually work? is it possible? dont give me a link. thanks!

Answer 1

It is based on the abillity of chaotic systems, such as the weather, to be so finely balanced between one state and another (such as a calm day or a hurricane) that even a seemingly insignificant change can cause enormous changes later on. The idea is that if the butterfly flaps it's wings it could make a small difference to a larger air current which then goes on to become a hurricane (or other freak weather condition). It is most certainly possible to imagine a scenario where this could occur but it is just a thought experiment, I don't think anyone has sugested that this has actually happend.