The Fibonacci sequence is a series of numbers where each number is the sum of the two preceding numbers. The sequence begins with 0 and 1 and progresses as 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, etc. This mathematical pattern is found throughout nature, appearing in aspects like petal arrangements, sunflower seeds, and seashell spirals. The Fibonacci sequence was first studied by Indian mathematicians around 200 BC and introduced to Western Europe by Leonardo Fibonacci in 1202 based on patterns in rabbit populations.

1. The Fibonacci Sequence It's as easy as 1, 1, 2, 3...

3. These numbers generate mathematical patterns that can be found in all aspects of life.

4. The patterns can be seen in everything from the human body to the physiology of plants and animals.

6. 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89, 144...and so on.

7. These numbers are obtained by adding the two previous numbers in the sequence to obtain the next higher number.

8. Example: 1+1= 2, 2+3= 5, 5+8= 13...

9. The formula is: Fn = Fn-1 + Fn-2

10. Every third number is even and the difference between each number is .618 with the reciprocal of 1.618. These numbers are know as the “golden ratio” or “golden mean.”

12. It is believed that contributions to the theory began in 200 BC by Indian mathematicians whose studies were based on Sanskirt prosody.

13. The sequence was introduced to Western European mathematics in 1202 by Leonardo of Pisa, aka “Fibonacci”

14. His study of the sequence began with the breeding patterns of rabbits. In which he found rabbit generations duplicated in accordance with the Fibonacci numbers.

17. For instance most daisies have 34, 55, or 89 petals. (The 9th, 10th, and 11 th Fibonacci numbers)

19. The arrangement of seed is based upon the golden mean which corresponds to the “golden angle” of 137.5 degrees.

20. The seeds are arranged in consistent patterns of 137.5 degrees

21. This gives the flower the optimal filling ratio for its seeds.

23. The numbers form what are called Fibonacci rectangles or “golden rectangles”

24. The rectangles are unique because each rectangle has sides equal to the length of the Fibonacci numbers.

25. Within these rectangles we can create a spiral with cross sections equal to exactly 1.618 (the “golden mean” with the corresponding angle of 137.5 degrees

27. Where did the study of the sequence begin?

28. Who introduced the numbers to Western European mathematics?

29. What is the golden ratio/golden mean and how is it related to the Fibonacci sequence?

30. Where can the Fibonacci sequence be found?

31. What are some natural phenomena created by using the Fibonacci sequence?