Over and Over Again (Anneli Lax New Mathematical Library)

Iterations, that is transformations that are applied to objects over and over again, are the subject of this book. Three types of iteration are considered. The first, smoothing, is the process by which geometrical shapes can be transformed into standard types. Functional iteration is a way of describing the phenomenon of chaos. Finally, iterations involving curves and surfaces play an important role in computer aided design and graphics. These themes are explored and developed with no more background required than high school mathematics and a little calculus. Several basic strategies are highlighted which unlock solutions to problems involving iteration, and these are then applied to solve problems drawn from International Mathematical Olympiads.