Chapter I

Nature of Mathematics
 Learning Objectives:

Identify the patterns in nature and regularities in the world.

Share experiences on practical, intellectual, and aesthetic dimensions of
mathematics.

1.1 Patterns and Numbers in Nature and the World

Patterns are regular, repeated, ore recurring forms or designs. We see patterns everyday-
from the layout of the floor tiles, and designs of skyscrapers, to the way we tie our shoelaces.
Studying patterns help students in identifying relationships and finding logical connections to form
generalizations and male predictions.

Example: What comes next in the figure in the pattern below?

Solution: Looking at the given figures, the lines seem to rotate at 90-degree intervals in a
counterclockwise direction, always parallel to one side of the square. Hence, either A or B could
be the answer. Checking the other patterns, the length of the lines inside the square follows a
decreasing trend. So again, either A or B could be the answer. Finally, looking at the number of
the lines inside the box, each succeeding figures has the number of lines increase by 1. This means
that the next figure should have the five lines inside. This leads to option A as the correct choice.

Example: What number comes next in 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, ___?

Solution: Looking at the given numbers, the sequence is increasing, with each term being two more
than the previous term: 3 = 1+2; 5 = 3 + 2; 9 = 7 + 2.
Therefore, the next term should be 11 = 9 + 2.

Types of Patterns in Nature

Patterns are referred to as visible consistencies found in nature. There are several types of
patterns including symmetries, trees, spirals, meanders, waves, foams, tessellations, cracks, and
stripes. While the scientific explanation for how each of these is formed - and why they are
significant in the natural world is amazing - the visual result is equally amazing.
1. Symmetry - includes two types of patterns: radial and bilateral. Radial symmetry references
the numerical symmetry referred to as the Fibonacci sequence (1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55,
89 . . .) If you counted the seeds within a sunflower, you would find the number of seeds
is equal to a Fibonacci number.

Bilateral (or mirror) symmetry, meaning they could be split into two matching halves,
much like the plant and sea life images here.

2. Trees/ Fractals - are patterns formed from chaotic equations and form self-similar patterns
of complexity increasing with magnification. If you divide it into parts, you will get a
nearly identical copy of the whole. Infinite iteration is not possible in nature, so all fractal
patterns are approximate. Each of the images on the left represent an example of a tree or
fractal patterns.
3. Spiral - are attributed to complicated mathematical algorithms, sequences, and equations -
and are common in plants and some animals like the fern and desert big horn sheep.

4. Meanders - are represented by bends in rivers and channels but can also be seen in other
forms throughout the natural environment. For example, the salt pans of the desert and
pattern within the kelp leaves contain meanders.

5. Waves - are disturbances that carry energy as they move. Wind waves are created as the
wind passes over a large body of water, creating patterns or ripples. When wind passes
over land, it creates dunes. Dunes may form a range of patterns as well.
6. Foams - are typically referred to as a mass of bubbles, but other types of foams can be seen
within the patterns of certain animal species such as the leopard, giraffe, and tortoises.

7. Tessellations - are repeating tiles over a surface commonly seen in reptiles like snakes and
alligators.

8. Cracks - are linear openings that form in materials to relieve stress. When a material fails
in all directions it results in cracks. The patterns created reveal if the material is elastic or
not.
 9. Stripe - is evolutionary in that it increases the chances of survival through camouflage. It
is most commonly known in zebras, but other species contain stripes - even butterflies.

Mathematics helps organize patterns and regularities in the world. Mathematics helps
predict the behavior of nature and phenomena in the world, as well as helps human exert control
over occurrences in the world for the advancement of our civilization.

Prepared by: Prof. Ethel D. Nabor, LPT, MA