Mathematics illuminated. The concepts of chaos. [Unit 13]

Description

The flapping of a butterfly's wings over Bermuda causes a rainstorm in Texas. Two sticks start side by side on the surface of a brook, only to follow divergent paths downstream. Both are examples of the phenomenon of chaos, characterized by a widely sensitive dependence of the future on slight changes in a system's initial conditions. This unit explores the mathematics of chaos, which involves the discovery of structure in what initially appears to be randomness, and which imposes limits on predictability. Mathematics Illuminated is a 13-part multimedia learning resource for adult learners and high school teachers in math and other disciplines. The series explores major themes in the field of mathematics, from mankind's earliest study of prime numbers to the cutting edge mathematics used to reveal the shape of the universe. Rather than a series of problems to be solved, mathematics is presented as play we engage in to answer deep questions that are relevant in our world today. Mathematics also provides us with a powerful language for uncovering and describing phenomena in the world around us. The groundbreaking videos, interactive Web exploration, text materials, and group activities included in Mathematics Illuminated reveal the secrets and hidden delights of the ever-evolving world of mathematics.

Runtime

28 minutes

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Subjects

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Database

Alexander Street

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