Fractals

Discover the Hidden Mathematics of Modern Geometry

Fractals, the never-ending geometric-mathematical patterns existing throughout nature, are revealed in the shapes of continents, galaxies, snowflakes, and grains of sand. In this fascinating and seminal volume, renowned pioneering-mathematician Benoit B. Mandelbrot explains his work on fractal geometry, mathematically translating the description of these complex shapes of nature.

Until Mandelbrot developed the concept of fractal geometry in the 1960s and 70s, most mathematicians believed these irregular shapes were too fragmented and amorphous to be described mathematically. Mandelbrot's revolutionary concept brought order to a variety of seemingly unsolvable problems in physics, biology, and financial markets.

Broad in application, this groundbreaking work will inform not just mathematicians, but anyone that appreciates the natural elegance of patterns made manifest. Featuring illustrations of mathematically defined shapes, Mandelbrot describes how geometric patterns relate to every aspect of the physical world around us.

Fractals, the geometric-mathematical patterns appearing throughout nature, are revealed in the shapes of continents, galaxies, snowflakes, and grains of sand. In this fascinating and seminal volume, renowned pioneering-mathematician Benoit Mandelbrot explains his work on fractal geometry, mathematically translating these complex shapes of nature.

"This book treats the fractional dimension with ferrid imagination and unremitting passion, and it succeeds in making a good case. It is gratifying to read about a new idea; it happens so rarely."
--Advances in Mathematics (as reviewed from the French version)

"There is a short list of works that display for the mind's delight the profound role of geometric form in the fabric of the world.. .Fractals: Form. Chance, and Dimension is a fresh addition to that notable shelf"
Philip Morrison. Scientific American (as reviewed from the French version)