In our universe, several phenomena are considered to be non-deterministic and exhibit random behavior. Here are a few examples:
Quantum Mechanics: At the microscopic level, the behavior of particles is governed by quantum mechanics. Quantum systems exhibit inherent randomness and uncertainty. The famous Heisenberg uncertainty principle states that certain pairs of properties, such as position and momentum, cannot both be precisely determined simultaneously. Instead, their values can only be described probabilistically.
Radioactive Decay: The process of radioactive decay is random and unpredictable. It occurs when unstable atomic nuclei spontaneously disintegrate, emitting particles or radiation. While the overall rate of decay can be measured and predicted statistically, the exact timing of each decay event for a particular atom is fundamentally random.
Brownian Motion: Brownian motion refers to the random movement of microscopic particles suspended in a fluid. It arises due to the collision of fluid molecules with the particles. The trajectory of an individual particle is unpredictable, as it is subject to random collisions from the surrounding molecules.
Weather Patterns: Weather is a complex system influenced by numerous factors, such as temperature, pressure, humidity, and wind patterns. While weather forecasting has significantly improved, weather systems still exhibit inherent sensitivity to initial conditions. Tiny variations in the starting conditions can lead to vastly different outcomes over time, making long-term weather predictions challenging and subject to randomness.
Genetic Mutations: Mutations in DNA occur randomly and can lead to genetic diversity. Environmental factors, radiation, or errors during DNA replication can induce mutations. The specific occurrence and type of mutation are generally unpredictable and can have significant consequences for an organism's evolution or the development of diseases.
Human Behavior: Although human behavior is influenced by various factors, it is not entirely deterministic. Our choices and actions can be influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and cognitive factors. However, due to the inherent complexity of human psychology and the presence of free will, human behavior often exhibits unpredictable and random elements.
It's important to note that while these examples involve random or probabilistic behavior, they are not necessarily devoid of underlying physical laws or patterns. They simply exhibit a level of unpredictability or inherent randomness within their systems.