Fractal geometey

Fractal geometry is a fairly new field of study, which focuses on understanding the dynamic structure of chaos. Fractals are the result of simple mathmatical equations that are repeated indefinatly. the most widly known and the first fractal ever brought to life was that of the mandlebrot set which used the simple equation of z = z^2 + c. The output recycles into the input perpetuating the cycle into infinity. this mechanistic following of rules has huge application in living systems, and fractal geometry is just now begenning to help in understanding the way our world, bodies, and even brains function. All living things are incredibly complex, but what determines ones physical makeup is determined by a simple sequence of base pairs encoded into our DNA. the simple sequence through devolopment is repeated over and over creating complexity in the process. If one was to look at a tree and observe its branches to determine the pattern they follow, one would realize it follows a simple rule and essentially is a fractal. The human circulatory system is also another good example of fractal geometry, as the network veins, capillaries, and arteries follow a specific fractal pattern as they scope from large to small. Fractal geometry, i belive, is a huge leap foward in understanding how life works as it privides a standard of organization for living systems.

david eiserman december 6 2007