We will begin with a "you know it when you see it" introduction to fractal sets. For many years mathematicians avoided working with fractals and referred to them as the "monsters" of mathematics. Recently, however, mathematicians have begun to explore fractals, as they can be used to describe the chaotic nature of the real world. We will embark on a historical journey where we'll meet important mathematicians who study fractal sets and on the way we will explore some of the basic properties that make fractals so monstrous. Series supported by Instructionally-Related Activities Funds

Coffee, tea & cookies at 3:45 p.m.