Fractal: meaning, definitions and examples

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fractal

 

[ หˆfrรฆktl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

A fractal is a complex geometric shape that can be split into parts, each of which is a reduced-scale copy of the whole. This property is known as self-similarity. Fractals are often found in nature, such as in the branching of trees or the structure of snowflakes. They can also be generated mathematically, producing intricate patterns that reveal a deeper order beneath apparent chaos.

Synonyms

recursive shape, self-similar pattern

Examples of usage

  • The branches of the tree form a fractal pattern.
  • Snowflakes exhibit beautiful fractal shapes.
  • The Mandelbrot set is a famous example of a mathematical fractal.
Context #2 | Noun

computer graphics

In computer graphics, fractals are used to create intricate textures and landscapes. Their recursive nature allows for the generation of vast, complex images from relatively simple mathematical equations. This technique is widely used in visual effects and animation to generate realistic environments or elements.

Synonyms

computer-generated pattern, mathematical pattern

Examples of usage

  • Fractal algorithms are used in CGI to create realistic mountains.
  • Video games often implement fractal patterns for terrain generation.
  • The fire effect in the movie was enhanced using fractal techniques.

Translations

Translations of the word "fractal" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น fractal

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคซเฅเคฐเฅˆเค•เฅเคŸเคฒ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Fraktal

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ fraktal

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ั„ั€ะฐะบั‚ะฐะป

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ fraktal

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใƒ•ใƒฉใ‚ฏใ‚ฟใƒซ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท fractale

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ fractal

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท fraktal

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ํ”„๋ž™ํƒˆ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ูุฑูƒุชุงู„

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ fraktรกl

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ fraktรกl

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅˆ†ๅฝข

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ fraktal

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ fraktal

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ั„ั€ะฐะบั‚ะฐะป

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒคแƒ แƒแƒฅแƒขแƒแƒšแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ fraktal

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ fractal

Etymology

The term 'fractal' was coined by the mathematician Benoรฎt Mandelbrot in 1975, derived from the Latin word 'fractus,' meaning 'broken' or 'fractured.' Fractals are mathematical sets that exhibit a repeating pattern at every scale and have been studied across various fields including mathematics, physics, and computer science. Prior to this, nature's complexity had often been described in terms of irregular shapes, which researchers tried to approximate using traditional geometry. Mandelbrot's work revolutionized this approach by introducing a new framework for understanding and visualizing these intricate structures. With advancements in computational technology, fractals have garnered significant attention in the realms of art, animation, and natural phenomena, showcasing the beauty of mathematics applied to real-world contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,601, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.