Chaos physics: what to teach in three lessons?

Abstract

Abstract Chaotic phenomena are not part of standard curricula, although this subject offers several interesting aspects which can help students better understand basic features of science. A central observation is that even simple physical systems, if chaotic, are unpredictable, just like the weather. We present the principles applied when developing a freely available short interactive material and outline the material itself. By the means of this material students can become acquainted with the elements of chaos science and also learn that the regular motions taught in physics lessons are the exceptions rather than the rule since a slight modification of the set-up (e.g. letting the suspension point of a pendulum move periodically) converts the motion to chaotic. The material can be used in both classroom and online teaching.