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Academic Year 2003/2004

Pattern Formation in Nature
CHEM 202 SP

The natural world presents a diverse range of intricate patterns: the characteristic stripes and spots of animals, the shifting landscapes of desert sand dunes, the hexagonal forms of honeycombs, the near perfect six-fold symmetry of snowflakes, the branching patterns of arterial structure, propagating cracks in brittle solids, river basin shapes, convection patterns in fluids, and the growth of cities. Recent research has suggested that many of these patterns arise from a few relatively simple mechanisms that are independent of the fine details of each system. We will examine a range of these natural phenomena to develop insights into how diverse morphologies may arise from a relatively small number of pattern-forming principles.

MAJOR READINGS

P. Ball, THE SELF-MADE TAPESTRY
Additional shorter articles

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Weekly written assignments based on laboratory exercises and a final presentation.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

The course is open ONLY to students who have completed Stage 1 General Education expectations. A good working knowledge of basic algebra will prove useful. Course meetings will consist of two 50 minute lecture/demonstrations and one two-hour lab per week.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: NSM CHEM    Grading Mode: Graded   

Prerequisites: NONE Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-19-2004

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