What is Tessellation?

Tessellation is a captivating concept that can be observed in both geometry and biology. But what exactly is tessellation and where can we find it occurring naturally in the world?

What is Tessellation?

Tessellation, also known as tiling, is the process of creating a pattern by fitting together identical shapes with no overlaps or gaps. In geometry, this concept is often explored through regular polygons like squares, triangles, and hexagons. These shapes can be arranged in various ways to cover a surface completely.

Where Does Tessellation Occur in Geometry?

One of the most famous examples of tessellation in geometry is the Penrose tiling, discovered by Sir Roger Penrose in the 1970s. This unique pattern consists of two shapes that can only tile a plane in a non-repeating pattern, challenging traditional ideas of symmetry and tessellation.

What about Tessellation in Biology?

In biology, tessellation can be observed in natural structures like the honeycomb built by bees. The hexagonal cells of a honeycomb are a perfect example of tessellation in nature, as they fit together seamlessly to maximize space and efficiency in storing honey and raising larvae.

Where Can We Find Tessellation in the Natural World?

Aside from honeycombs, tessellation can be found in the stunning patterns of snowflakes, the scales of a snake's skin, and the arrangement of leaves on a plant. These natural occurrences of tessellation showcase the beauty and efficiency of patterns in the world around us.

Whether in the intricate designs of a snowflake or the precise layout of a honeycomb, tessellation is a fascinating phenomenon that bridges the worlds of geometry and biology. By understanding and appreciating tessellation, we can gain a deeper insight into the interconnectedness of patterns in nature.