MATH 300(F) Fractals

This course will introduce students to the ideas and mathematics behind fractals and the Mandelbrot set. It will begin with an introduction to dynamical systems, explore briefly the notion of chaos and look at iterated function systems as a way of defining fractals. The notions of fractional dimension and self-similarity will also be explored. The last part of the course will introduce the Mandelbrot set and the Julia sets in the complex plane. The student will be expected to become familiar with software programs to explore and learn the various properties of fractals and the Mandelbrot set. These experimental projects will be an integral part of the course. Evaluation will be based on projects, homeworks, and exams. Prerequisite: Mathematics 151 or 210 or 243 or 211 or permission of the instructor.

Hour: SILVA