Page 23 - Math 21 Module_Chapter One

15

Fibonacci Sequence in Nature

Fibonacci sequence is also seen in
different objects. The sunflower seed
shows a Fibonacci sequence. The
pattern of two spirals in opposing
directions, clockwise and counter-
clockwise, are consecutive Fibonacci
numbers and usually contains 34 and 55
seeds. Image Credit: http://www.maths.surrey.ac.uk/hosted-
ites/R.Knott/Fibonacci/fibnat.html
Fibonacci numbers are also
evident in spirals of a pine cone. We can
count 13 and 8 spirals in each direction,
both Fibonacci numbers.

The Fibonacci sequence can also
be observed in the way tree branches Image Credit: http://www.maths.surrey.ac.uk/hosted-
sites/R.Knott/Fibonacci/fibnat.html
are formed or split. A main trunk grows
until it has branches and soon creates
two growth points. Then, one of the new
stems branches into two, while the other
one lies dormant. This pattern of
branching is repeated for each of the
new stems. The sneezewort tree and
algae display exhibit such kind of
pattern.