Simulation of pollution spread over conflagrations in atmosphere (Q2773571)

The author discusses simulation of the rise of combustion products over conflagrations into the atmosphere. He presents both the method of computer simulation and the method of laboratory modeling. To present the latter method, the author introduces basic notions of the theory of similarity and dimension. The influence is discussed of a fire source area upon the altitude of pollutants rising. On the basis of the results obtained, a conclusion regarding the possibility of ``nuclear winter'' is drawn. NEWLINENEWLINENEWLINEThe article is based on a lecture given by the author for secondary school teachers in the framework of the ``International Soros Science Educational Program'' and is aimed at presenting contemporary developments in mathematics on an elementary level understandable for secondary school teachers and pupils.