The JavaScript version of the Snowflake Fractal is comprised of a central viewing area, called the canvas, where all mathematical calculations are graphically represented. On the canvas the student will see a number of points connected, in some way, by lines. The lines represent the iterations used in generating the snowflake image. Both the number of points and iterations may be increased or decreased at any time. Around the canvas are various options that allow for inspection and generation of the image. All the features used with the Snowflake Fractal are described in detail below.
These points are red circles 6 pixels in diameter that are used as fixed endpoints for the iterative calculations. The student may move the points on the canvas by dragging them with the mouse. The iterations will be updated as the point is being dragged. (NOTE: If the iterations are above 4, then only the 4th iteration will be seen while a point is being dragged. Calculations for higher iterations are slow.) The number of points may be increased or decreased at anytime.
The iterations are seen as a series of lines connecting one point to the next. Whichever iteration is currently selected is seen in black. If multiple iterations are selected, then these are seen in other colors. The student may increase or decrease the number of iterations at any time.
These two buttons and choice work together to allow the student to increase or decrease the number of iterations used. A higher number of iterations necessarily mean a longer computation time, so those on slower machines may want to use discretion in using any iteration above the 5th.
On this panel are three checkboxes that allow the student to select simultaneously the 0, 1st, and/or 2nd iteration. These are colored yellow, cyan, and green respectively. This is useful to see what the generating shape looks like, which may not easily be seen in intricate images.
On this panel are three checkboxes that allow the student to select either a square or triangular (equilateral) grid. This grid appears as a background marked by light gray squares and is useful in positioning very precisely the points (see 'snap-to-grid'). The grid may also be set invisible or visible. 'Snap-to-grid' is not affected by the grid's visibility.
On this panel are three checkboxes that allow the student to specify which size grid is to be used.
This checkbox allows the student to snap the point being moved to a specific grid marker. This is useful for exact positioning of points for perfectly geometrical shapes. As a point is being moved, the student will see one point being dragged with the mouse and a second point indicating where this point will 'snap' . The 'snap' feature works on the chosen grid whether or not it is visible.
These two buttons and choice work together to allow the student to increase or decrease the number of points used. Whenever a different number of points is chosen, then they will be reset to a straight line in the middle of the canvas. Changing the number of points will NOT simply add another point to the current display.