Fractal

A [|fractal] is a pattern that repeats at different scales, and examples are all around us. Technically, we call shapes like this "Self-Similar" because a little piece of the shape looks similar to itself. This fern shows a rough self-similarity, being made of little copies of the same overall shape.

[|fractals] - Because they appear similar at all levels of magnification, fractals are often considered to be infinitely complex (in informal terms). Natural objects that approximate fractals to a degree include clouds, mountain ranges, lightning bolts, coastlines, and snow flakes.