The fractal nature of geography
Article Abstract:
The work of mathematicians Helge von Koch and Benoit Mandelbrot resulted in the derivation of equations that allow computers to define irregularly shaped objects that could not be defined by Euclidean geometry. The application of fractals to geography has enabled remarkably accurate modeling of mountains and coastlines from simple equations. Research on the underlying mathematics that define objects' shapes is demonstrating that fractals may link biology, geography and many other previously unrelated fields.
Publication Name: Geographical Magazine
Subject: Petroleum, energy and mining industries
ISSN: 0016-741X
Year: 1992
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Physical phenomena
Article Abstract:
Fractal models have been used to validate theories of river basin development conceived in the 1940s by R E Horton and A N Strahler involving classification of stream size. The tree-like shape created by flowing water is the river basin filling all the spaces that are possible given the constraints of hydrology, topography and geology. The pattern can be simulated using fractal models, which is allowing study of the relationship between river basins and coastlines.
Publication Name: Geographical Magazine
Subject: Petroleum, energy and mining industries
ISSN: 0016-741X
Year: 1992
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A random walk along the urban boundary
Article Abstract:
One aspect of fractal geometry useful to geographers is self-similarity, where an object is made up of smaller, similar objects. This echoes the theories from the 19th and early 20th centuries that describe city growth and land use in urban regions. The random walk technique of fractal geometry has been used to model how urban growth occurs in branches along transport routes, rather than circularly. Disease vectors can be more accurately modeled as well.
Publication Name: Geographical Magazine
Subject: Petroleum, energy and mining industries
ISSN: 0016-741X
Year: 1992
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