The Mathematics of the iteration
of algebraic functions has been studied for decades. However,
the striking beauty and complexity of the patterns resulting
from the iterative calculations have only recently been explored
in detail, due in part to advances in computer graphics. B.
Mandelbrot has been largely responsible for extending the theory
and graphic presentation of iterated functions as a special
class of the new geometry known as fractal geometry. Often fractals
represent objects or patterns that appear "self-similar";
that is, no matter what scale is used to view the pattern, the
magnified portion of the fractal shape looks similar to the
original pattern. Computers and the Imagination Clifford A.
Pickover 1991
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