Fractals Scaling and Growth Far from Equilibrium

This 1998 book describes the progress that had been made towards the development of a comprehensive understanding of the formation of complex disorderly patterns under conditions far from equilibrium. The application of fractal geometry and scaling concepts to the quantitative description and understanding of structure formed under non-equilibrium conditions is described. Self-similar fractals multi-fractals and scaling methods are discussed with examples to facilitate applications in the physical sciences. Computer simulations and experimental studies are emphasised but the author also includes discussion of theoretical advances in the subject. Much of the book deals with diffusion-limited growth processes and the evolution of rough surfaces although a broad range of other applications is also included. The techniques and topics will be relevant to graduate students and researchers in physics chemistry materials science engineering and the earth sciences interested in applying the ideas of fractals and scaling.