Fractals

A Very Short Introduction
Erscheinungsjahr 2013
ISBN: 978-0-19-967598-2
Verlag: Oxford University Press

Buch, Englisch, 160 Seiten, Format (B × H): 111 mm x 172 mm, Gewicht: 119 g

Reihe: Very Short Introductions

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.

ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

Zielgruppe

Ideal for students of mathematics and science at both A-level and undergraduate level, as well as general readers interested in popular science and mathematics.

Autoren/Hrsg.

Falconer, Kenneth

Fachgebiete

• Interdisziplinäres Wissenschaften Wissenschaften Interdisziplinär Naturwissenschaften, Technik, Medizin
• Mathematik | Informatik Mathematik Mathematik Allgemein Populäre Darstellungen der Mathematik
• Mathematik | Informatik Mathematik Topologie Analytische Topologie
• Interdisziplinäres Wissenschaften Wissenschaften: Allgemeines Populärwissenschaftliche Werke

Inhaltsverzeichnis

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

Über Autor(innen)

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).