Predictability of noise-controlled dynamics

Noise-controlled dynamics runs counter to usual intuition: the larger the n oise the more regular the solutions. We present numerical and analytical re sults for a set of three stochastic partial differential equations in one s pace dimension, motivated by the intermittent destabilization of tall thin convection cells by horizontal shear. Time-series are predictable in the se nse that they follow Limit cycles with a small variation in amplitude from cycle to cycle. Closer inspection reveals that the amplitude is determined by very small amounts of noise. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights r eserved.