Theory - Diffusion Limited Aggregation Calculator

Application

The calculator models the growth of objects by a process in which growth starts from a central point, and new attachments are added on randomly. This process is seen in snowflake growth, crystal formation, electrodeposition, dielectric breakdown (lightning), and crack formation among others.

Algorithm

The calculator uses the Diffusion Limited Aggregation algorithm on either a square, hexagonal, or octagonal lattice to create aggregates, and uses a box counting method to measure the fractal dimension of the resulting aggregates.

Architecture

The calculator is programmed as a Java Applet.