University of Iowa Department
of Mathematics Presents
A Heartland Partnership / VIGRE Event!
"Fractals: From Broccoli to
Benoit"
Colin B. McKinney
October 17, 2006
6:30-8:00 PM
University of Iowa
Location / Time:
3 MacLean Hall (MLH) from 6:30-7:00 for pizza and soda (not
pop!)
110 MLH from 7-8 for the talk, discussion afterwards if
desired.
Parking:
The best place to park is at the
Old Capitol Mall parking ramp, as it is the closest to MacLean
Hall. After 5 PM, metered parking on the street is free, but spots
are usually difficult to find.
Directions:
From I80, take the Dubuque Street
exit, and follow Dubuque until Church Street. Turn right (west) on
Church, and follow the bend onto Clinton street. Continue past the
Pentacrest on Clinton street, and turn into the Old Capitol ramp
just before Burlington street.
Travel Info:
If you are traveling from outside the Iowa City area, the Math
Department may be able to help with travel expenses
(parking/gas).
Abstract:
In this talk, we will explore examples of a fractal, which is an
object that exhibits some kind of self-similarity. Examples of
fractals can be found in nature but can also computer generated.
Broccoli is a fractal found in nature, and we will explore its self
similarity. We will discuss a way to systematize the generation of
broccoli like fractals, and observe the wealth of other examples
that quickly arise. Also, we will discuss the Mandelbrot set, which
is a fractal generated via computer by considering a function of
complex numbers. The Mandelbrot set exhibits an absolute wealth of
beautiful structures, which we will explore both in still images
and in computer animations.
Soundtrack:
Techno music may be involved.
Flyer:
Here is a flyer (in PDF format) which you can post if desired:
gauss-fractals-flyer.pdf.
RSVP:
Please contact Colin (cbmckinn@math.uiowa.edu) to RSVP so we know how much to
order. If possible, aggregate yourself by school / group.