For curves that enclose a region, the dimension can be obtained by the
comparing the perimeter of the curve and the area of the enclosed region, |
P = k⋅Ad/2. |
We illustrate this relation for simple Euclidean curves. |
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Next, we show why the same relation cannot hold for fractal curves. |
If the dimension, d, of the curve satisfies d > 1, then the perimeter is infinite yet the enclosed
area is finite. |
Consequently, P = k⋅Ad/2 cannot hold. | |
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Then we reexpress the Euclidean approach to obtain a form that can
be applied to fractal curves. |
Looking at geometrically similar shapes and measuring the area and perimeter
at the same scale, we find |
P1/P2 = (A1/A2)d/2 |
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Here is an example of using the relation between perimeters
and areas to calculate the dimension. |
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