Chaos Theory in Geodesy and Geophysics

The application of chaos theory has also entered geodesy and geophysics. As an example consider the classical Keplerian law to describe the motion of the earth around the sun. This motion is significantly disturbed by taking into account a third body, e.g., the moon. The occurring disturbances may be completely irregular and "chaotic". The famous Lorenz-attractor may be used to describe the phenomenon of the pole changing and the inherent reversal of the magnetic field. Among many other application fields, plate tectonics is investigated for a possible theory to predict seismic activities.