Chaotic systems are hard to predict - this much has been known for decades. However, studying the fractal geometry that underpins chaotic systems reveals so much more. From a practical point of view it tells us when we can trust predictions and when we can’t. I give some examples in weather and climate forecasting and show how this is revolutionising the way in which disaster relief agencies work.
From a theoretical point of view, fractals reveal deep links between geometry and the mathematics of number theory and non-computability. Using this, I shall speculate that the universe as a whole is a chaotic system evolving on its cosmological fractal geometry. If this is correct, it will help us understand the holistic nature of our quantum universe, as revealed by seemingly incomprehensible entanglement experiments.
Full event details here
Before the lecture begins, Tim Palmer will hold a book signing of his popular science book "Primacy of Doubt” Please bring a copy with you on the night to be signed. Buy your copy here.
PUBLIC EVENT - Everyone Welcome
Date: 3rd December 2024Location: TLC033
Time of Lecture: 18:00 - 19:00
Book signing: 17:15 - 18:00Fee: Free to attend
The Stirling Lecture is an annual public lecture organised by IPPP in honour of its first director, the late Professor James Stirling CBE, FRS, who served as the first Provost of Imperial College London. The lecture series was created in 2008.
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