{"product_id":"the-selfmade-tapestry-pattern-formation-in-nature","title":"The Self-Made Tapestry: Pattern Formation in Nature","description":"\u003cp\u003eFor centuries  scientists have struggled to understand the origins of the patterns and forms found in nature-from the leopards spots to the graceful spirals of a mollusc shell to the complex designs on a butterflys wing. Now  in this lucid and elegantly written book  Philip Ball applies state-of-the-art scientific understanding from the fields of biology  chemistry  geology  physics  and mathematics to these ancient mysteries  revealing how natures seemingly complex patterns originate in simple physical laws. Ball traces the history of scientific thought about natural patterns  showing how common presumptions-for example  that complex form must be guided by some intelligence or that form always follows function-are erroneous and continue to mislead scientists today. He investigates specific patterns in depth  revealing that these designs are self-organized and that simple  local interactions between component parts produce motifs like spots  stripes  branches  and honeycombs. In the process  he examines the mysterious phenomenon of symmetry and why it appears-and breaks-in similar ways in different systems. Finally  he attempts to answer this profound question: why are some patterns universal? Illustrations throughout the text  many in full color  beautifully illuminate Balls ideas. A fascination with nature s patterns is as old as civilization. With this spellbinding book  Ball dispels age-old conundrums while increasing the readers wonder and appreciation for the beauty of the natural world. The Self-Made Tapestry will enlighten anyone who has ever marveled at the shape of a seashell or the brilliance of a spiders web.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"My Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44945922850869,"sku":"ByrdShop_0198502443","price":55.89,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0627\/8139\/0901\/files\/9780198502449.jpg?v=1770376902","url":"https:\/\/atxbooks.com\/products\/the-selfmade-tapestry-pattern-formation-in-nature","provider":"ATX Books","version":"1.0","type":"link"}