Physics - General & Miscellaneous, Nature - General & Miscellaneous, Mathematical Analysis - General & Miscellaneous, General Aesthetics & Philosophy of Art, Philosophy - General & Miscellaneous, Calculus
Why does nature prefer some shapes and not others? The variety of sizes, shapes, and irregularities in nature is endless. Skillfully integrating striking full-color illustrations, the authors describe the efforts by scientists and mathematicians since the Renaissance to identify and describe the principles underlying the shape of natural forms. But can one set of laws account for both the symmetry and irregularity as well as the infinite variety of nature's designs? A complete answer to this question is likely never to be discovered. Yet, it is fascinating to see how the search for some simple universal laws down through the ages has increased our understanding of nature. The Parsimonious Universe looks at examples from the world around us at a non-mathematical, non-technical level to show that nature achieves efficiency by being stingy with the energy it expends.
Looks for the mathematical underpinnings in natural shape & form, optimal designs in nature, heritage of ancient science
An accessible account of the search for the mathematical underpinnings of natural shapes and form and the implications of symmetry and regularity in nature. Looks at centuries of evidence from ancient times to the present that the physical world adheres to the principles of the economy of means, with material on the heritage of ancient science, soap films, optimal design, and surfaces. Includes numerous color and b&w photos and illustrations. For general readers with some mathematical sophistication. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
