The Fibonacci sequence is a series of numbers whereby each number is the sum of the two proceeding numbers. The most well known sequence starts from 0, continuing on as such: 1,1,2,3,5,8,13,21 etc. This series of numbers can be visually communicated to create the perfect spiral, more well known as the "Golden Spiral".

 

The numbers are used to construct the Fibonacci tiling, which is the template for the Golden Spiral. It starts with two squares side by side of 1cm size, and continuing round in a clockwise direction squares are added to the sides, the size growing in correlation to the numbers of the sequence. Once completed, one can draw an arc through each corner of the squares and thus the perfect spiral is born.

 

The Golden Spiral is not simply a mathematical coincidence, but can be found in natural forms throughout time. The most commonly known is the spiral of the Nautilus sea shell. It is also visible in seed heads, pinecones, spiral galaxies and hurricane formations. The Fibonacci number sequence occurs when counting petal numbers, tree branches and animal body proportions. Surprisingly, the unlikely connection between a regimented, technical number sequence and unique natural forms is incredible.

 

Taking it back in time...

Fibonacci was an Italian mathematician, his name short for 'figlio di Bonacci', meaning 'Son of Bonacci'. Once the Fibonacci sequence was created it was quickly discovered throughout natures, making discoveries into plant formations regarding their regimentation to an arithmethic sequence.

 

Visually the Golden Spiral is not a typical geometric shape, like those usually found in mathematics, however the numerical proportions and mathematically correct sequence provide the perfect associations between biology and mathematics.