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Maths gets into shape

Nature (2003)Cite this article

Is it a starfish? Is it an orchid? No, it's Superformula.

One simple equation can generate a vast diversity of natural shapes, a Belgian biologist has discovered. The Superformula, as its creator Johan Gielis has christened it, produces everything from simple triangles and pentagons, to stars, spirals and petals.

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References

  1. Gielis, J. A generic geometric transformation that unifies a wide range of natural and abstract shapes. American Journal of Botany, 90, 333 - 338, (2003).

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  1. John Whitfield
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Whitfield, J. Maths gets into shape. Nature (2003). https://doi.org/10.1038/news030331-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/news030331-3

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