Henna Koivusalo

Fearless iteration: Totally unexpected fractal constructions

The word "fractal" is derived from the Latin word "fractus"="broken", and is used as an adjective to mathematical objects that have fine structure at all levels of magnification. They arise naturally from iteration, for example, of dynamical systems, or of forces of nature. Perhaps due to the prevalence of fractal constructions in healthy nature, humans tend to view fractal objects as beautiful.

In this talk I aim to demonstrate what the power of iteration can do for us as humans and as mathematicians, including turning a needle without wasting space. The talk will be as hands-on and formula-free as possible, while introducing some recent research developments in fractal geometry. Time permitting, I will even include a result of my own that is one of my personal favourites (joint with Michal Rams).