The Butterfly Effect
2007-12-04 14:17:32.000 – Linnea Koons, Summit Intern
NULL
The Butterfly Effect; Noun; a term attributed to Edward Lorenz and used to describe the effect a small disturbance can have on a non-linear dynamical system (the atmosphere for example). Also called “sensitivity to initial conditions”, it refers to the idea that the tiny perturbations in the atmosphere caused by the flap of a butterfly’s wings can ultimately set off a tornado or other high powered storm (conversely, it can also prevent such an event).
I was reminded of this phenomenon when Karen and I took a walk down the Auto Road to check on one of the Auto Road Vertical Temperature Profile (ARVTP) sites. Frozen to the road was a monarch butterfly. And who knows, had it not succumbed on the side of Mt Washington it may have been the instrumental force in preventing the yesterday’s storm.
Linnea Koons, Summit Intern
Geologist Climbs Rock Pile, Looks Up
Geologist Climbs Rock Pile, Looks Up By Bailey Nordin Hello from the summit of Mount Washington! My name is Bailey Nordin, and I am the newest Weather Observer and Education Specialist joining the team
Life on Top of New England
Life on Top of New England By Anna Trujillo Hi everyone! My name is Anna Trujillo and I am one of the interns for the MWOBS winter season. I am super excited for the
I Haven’t Seen a Tree in 12 Days
I Haven’t Seen a Tree in 12 Days By Ryan Steinke A photo of me hiking Cathedral Ledge during my first off week. Hi everyone, my name is Ryan Steinke, and I
