Fractals

Description

Many are familiar with the beauty and ubiquity of fractal forms within nature. Unlike the study of smooth forms such as spheres, fractal geometry describes more familiar shapes and patterns, such as the complex contours of coastlines, the outlines of clouds, and the branching of trees.

In this Very Short Introduction, Kenneth Falconer looks at the roots of the 'fractal revolution' that occurred in mathematics in the 20th century, presents the 'new geometry' of fractals, explains the basic concepts, and explores the wide range of applications in science, and in aspects of economics.

This is essential introductory reading for students of mathematics and science, and those interested in popular science and mathematics.

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About the author

Kenneth Falconer is Professor of Pure Mathematics at St Andrews University. He has published many papers on fractal geometry, and three books on the topic, including Fractal Geometry: Mathematical Foundations and Applications (Wiley-Blackwell).

Table of contents

Preface
1:The fractal concept
2:Self-similarity
3:Fractal dimension
4:Julia sets and the Mandelbrot set
5:Random walks and Brownian motion
6:Fractals in the real world
7:A little history
Further reading