Fractals to study Quantum Systems

Source– This post is based on the article “How fractals offer a new way to see the quantum realm | Explained ” published in “The Hindu” on 17th November 2023.

Why in the News?

Physicists are using fractal geometry to study quantum systems, providing a unique perspective on the uncertainties of quantum physics.

What are Fractals?

1. Fractals are geometric shapes that are self-similar across different scales. They are created by repeating a simple process over and over in an ongoing feedback loop. Example- Koch snowflake– a shape that begins as an equilateral triangle, and in each subsequent step, every side becomes the base for a new triangle.

2. Fractal patterns are extremely familiar, since nature is full of fractals. For instance: human fingerprints, tree rings, shells of snails, graphene etc.

What are the applications of fractality?

1. The first attempt to apply fractal analysis in physics was for Brownian motion – the rapid, random, zigzagging motion of small particles suspended in a liquid medium, like pollen in water.

2. Fractals can be applied in data compression, to design more compact antennae.

3. Some have used it for studying patterns in galaxies and cell biology.

Thus, they provide a unique tool to understand complex systems and patterns in nature.

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