Fibonacci & The Beauty of Nature

Today, 11/23, is Fibonacci Day, honoring Leonardo Bonacci, one of the greatest mathematicians ever.  He formulated what is known as the Fibonacci sequence, or the root of the Golden Ratio phenomenon, which presents itself prominently in nature. Wait, how do binary numbers translate to natural beauty? Easily.

First, here is the Fibonacci sequence: 0, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 56, and so on, indefinitely. Starting with the basic 0 and 1, each successive number is the product of the two preceding numbers:

0+1 = 1        1+1 = 2      1+2 = 3      2+3 = 5      3+5 = 8     5+8 = 13, etc.

But, again, how does this relate to nature? Bonacci observed that nature followed this sequence in its growth patterns. It’s known as the Fibonacci or Golden Spiral:

He also observed that the ratio of each set of the last two numbers is 1.6.  This is known as the Golden Ratio, and shows up in growth patterns throughout nature:

Starting with the center, each successive stage is 1.6 times the previous stage.  This Golden Spiral is consistent throughout all natural phenomena, not just plants:

. Yes, even storm patterns follow this Golden Ratio.

There are many examples to suggest this is a universal pattern that applies even beyond our planet:

So, next time you’re out in nature, take a look around, or look up and observe the magic of Fibonacci’s Golden Ratio.  Once you start seeing it, it’s hard to ignore.  And it’s also easy to remember this special day.  Why? Simple –  it’s on 1 1 2 3 every year.

Happy Fibonacci Day!

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Debb Janes (@natureasneighbors)