Chaos Theory Predictability

Discussions center on chaos theory, explaining why deterministic systems like double pendulums or weather are unpredictable due to sensitive dependence on initial conditions. Commenters reference Wikipedia, videos, and examples to argue against perfect predictability in complex systems.

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AvPco e.g youtube.com chaosbook.org THINGS wikipedia.org chaotic chaos deterministic initial theory systems predict molecules conditions predictions

Sample Comments

enraged_camel • Aug 7, 2021 • View on HN

You're being pedantic.Chaotic systems, in essence, are known for its unpredictability. Watch this to get an idea: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEjZd-AvPco

shusson • Feb 3, 2020 • View on HN

I believe you are talking about Chaos theory [1][1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaos_theory

kbelder • Feb 16, 2021 • View on HN

Possibly it's a chaotic deterministic system, which means it can't be precisely predicted by any means short of a full simulation.

olaf • Jul 9, 2014 • View on HN

Ain't that a chaotic system which is not deterministic?

dmbche • Jun 20, 2025 • View on HN

Look into Chaos Theory - the universe is not deterministic, you're good.Or for a tldr look for the three body problem or try to find a solution to a double pendulum!

gapeslape • Oct 26, 2018 • View on HN

This seems like a nice example of chaotic system (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaos_theory).

sova • Dec 1, 2020 • View on HN

Sounds like chaos theory -- small "variations" in the initial starting conditions can take you to a whole different place

ph0rque • May 30, 2018 • View on HN

Yes, a chaotic system which is hard to predict.

taneq • Feb 20, 2019 • View on HN

No, but it is probably a chaotic system (in the 'sensitive dependence on initial conditions' sense).

jamiek88 • Jan 28, 2024 • View on HN

The system is chaotic so even in principle it’s likely impossible.