Fractals

The simple definition of a fractal is: "a geometric pattern that is repeated at ever smaller scales to produce irregular shapes and surfaces that cannot be represented by classical geometry. Fractals are used especially in computer modeling of irregular patterns and structures in nature."

"Fractal" was coined by Benoit Mandelbrot in 1975. It basically means "an irregular surface like that of a broken stone." A fractal is a non-regular geometric shape. It has the same degree of non-regularity on all scales.

Fractals can be found in nature:

Or in art:

So, if you ever wondered why math was so important...it helps to explain the beauty we see in patterns around us. Go out and enjoy some geometry today!