Chaos theory is an exciting, growing field which usually involves the study of a range of phenomena exhibiting a sensitive dependence on initial conditions. Although chaos often seems totally "random" and unpredictable, it actually obeys strict mathematical rules derived from equations that can be formulated and studied. One of the principle research tools for the study of chaos is computer graphics. The "Chaos & Graphics" section of Computers & Graphics, an international journal, presents articles, notes and tutorials on the seemingly paradoxical combination of randomness and structure in systems of mathematical, physical, biological, electrical, chemical and artistic interest. The general purpose is to show how complicated graphical behavior and structures can arise in systems which are based on simple rules.
Topics include:
* iteration * cellular automata * bifurcation maps * fractals * Julia sets * "Life" * creation of the patterns of nature from simple rules * phase plane portraits . . . primarily aesthetic and unusual graphics drawn from the universe of mathematics. The resulting pictures should be of interest to a wide spectrum of scientists and artists. Short computational recipes are included wherever possible.