# The Golden Ratio

(Difference between revisions)
 Revision as of 12:28, 28 May 2012 (edit)← Previous diff Revision as of 13:42, 18 July 2012 (edit) (undo) (Fixed hides. Forced the MME section to hide (as it should))Next diff → (44 intermediate revisions not shown.) Line 1: Line 1: {{Image Description Ready {{Image Description Ready |ImageName=The Golden Ratio |ImageName=The Golden Ratio - |Image=180px-Pentagram-phi.svg.png + |Image=Goldenratioapplet1.jpg - |ImageIntro=The pentagram at the right is designed using two isosceles triangles that exhibit the golden ratio. One triangle has a base of length 1 and legs of length $\varphi$, while the other triangle has a base of length $\varphi$ and legs of length 1. + |ImageIntro=The '''golden number,''' often denoted by lowercase Greek letter "phi", is
${\varphi}=\frac{1 + \sqrt{5}}{2} = 1.61803399...$.
- The golden number, often referred to as ''phi'' is numerically equal to $\frac{1 + \sqrt{5}}{2} \approx 1.61803399 \dots =\varphi$. + The term '''golden ratio''' refers to any ratio which has the value phi. The image to the right illustrates dividing and subdividing a rectangle into the golden ratio. The result is [[Field:Fractals|fractal-like]]. This page explores real world applications for the golden ratio, common misconceptions about the golden ratio, and multiple derivations of the golden number. - The term ''golden ratio'' refers to the ratio \varphi : 1. + |ImageDescElem=[[Image:Monalisa01.jpg|Does the Mona Lisa exhibit the golden ratio?|thumb|400px|right]]The golden number, approximately 1.618, is called golden because many geometric figures involving this ratio are often said to possess special beauty. Be that true or not, the ratio has many beautiful and surprising mathematical properties. The Greeks were aware of the golden ratio, but did not consider it particularly significant with respect to aesthetics. It was not called the "divine" proportion until the 15th century, and was not called "golden" ratio until the 18th century. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_ratio "Golden ratio"], Retrieved on 20 June 2012. +
[[Image:Finalpyramid1.jpg|Markowsky has determined the above dimensions to be incorrect.|thumb|400px|left]] + Since then, it has been claimed that the golden ratio is the most aesthetically pleasing ratio, and claimed that this ratio has appeared in architecture and art throughout history. Among the most common such claims are that the Parthenon and Leonardo Da Vinci's Mona Lisa use the golden ratio. Even more esoteric claims propose that the golden ratio can be found in the human facial structure, the behavior of the stock market, and the Great Pyramids.
+ However, such claims have been criticized in scholarly journals as wishful thinking or sloppy mathematical analysis. Additionally, there is no solid evidence that supports the claim that the golden rectangle is the most aesthetically pleasing rectangle.[http://www.math.nus.edu.sg/aslaksen/teaching/maa/markowsky.pdf "Misconceptions about the Golden Ratio"], Retrieved on 24 June 2012. - This page explores real world applications for the golden ratio, common misconceptions about the golden ratio, and multiple derivations of the golden number. - |ImageDescElem=The golden ratio, approximately 1.618, is called golden because many geometric figures involving this ratio are often said to possess special beauty. Be that true or not, the ratio has many beautiful and surprising mathematical properties. The Greeks were aware of the golden ratio, but did not consider it particularly significant with respect to aesthetics. It was not called the "divine" proportion until the 15th century, and was not called "golden" ratio until the 18th century. Since then, it has been claimed that the golden ratio is the most aesthetically pleasing ratio, and claimed that this ratio has appeared in architecture and art throughout history. Among the most common such claims are that the Parthenon and Leonardo Da Vinci's Mona Lisa uses the golden ratio. Even more esoteric claims propose that the golden ratio can be found in the human facial structure, the behavior of the stock market, and the Great Pyramids. However, such claims have been criticized in scholarly journals (see references at the end of the page) as wishful thinking or sloppy mathematical analysis. Additionally, there is no solid evidence that supports the claim that the golden rectangle is the most aesthetically pleasing rectangle. ===Misconceptions about the Golden Ratio=== ===Misconceptions about the Golden Ratio=== - In his paper, ''Misconceptions about the Golden Ratio,'' George Markowsky investigates many claims about the golden ratio appearing in man-made objects and in nature. Specifically, he claims that the golden ratio does not appear in the Parthenon or the Great Pyramids, two of the more common beliefs. He also disputes the belief that the human body exhibits the golden ratio. To read more, [http://www.math.nus.edu.sg/aslaksen/teaching/maa/markowsky.pdf click here!] + Many rumors and misconceptions surround the golden ratio. There have been many claims that the golden ratio appears in art and architecture. In reality, many of these claims involve warped images and large margins of error. One claim is that the Great Pyramids exhibit the golden ratio in their construction. This belief is illustrated below. + + In his paper, ''Misconceptions about the Golden Ratio,'' George Markowsky disputes this claim, arguing that the dimensions assumed in the picture are not anywhere close to being correct. Another belief is that a series of [[The Golden Ratio#Jump2|golden rectangles]] appears in the ''Mona Lisa''. + However, the placing of the golden rectangles seems arbitrary. Markowsky also disputes the belief that the human body exhibits the golden ratio. To read more, [http://www.math.nus.edu.sg/aslaksen/teaching/maa/markowsky.pdf click here!] + : + : ====''What do you think?''==== ====''What do you think?''==== - [[Image:Golden ratio parthenon.jpg|300px]] + George Markowsky argues that, like the ''Mona Lisa,'' the Parthenon does not exhibit a series of golden rectangles (discussed below). Do you think the Parthenon was designed with the golden ratio in mind or is the image below simply a stretch of the imagination? - [http://lotsasplainin.blogspot.com/2008/01/wednesday-math-vol-8-phi-golden-ratio.html "Parthenon"], Retrieved on 16 May 2012. + :[[Image:Golden ratio parthenon.jpg|300px]][http://lotsasplainin.blogspot.com/2008/01/wednesday-math-vol-8-phi-golden-ratio.html "Parthenon"], Retrieved on 16 May 2012. ==A Geometric Representation== ==A Geometric Representation== ===The Golden Ratio in a Line Segment=== ===The Golden Ratio in a Line Segment=== - [[Image:Golden_segment.jpg|400px]][[Image:Goldenratiolabeled1.jpg]] + [[Image:Golden_segment.jpg|400px]][[Image:Animation2.gif]] - The golden ratio can be defined using a line segment divided into two sections, of lengths a and b, respectively. If a and b are appropriately chosen, the ratio of a to b is the same as the ratio of a + b to a and both ratios are equal to $\varphi$. The value of this ratio turns out not to depend on the particular values of a and b, as long as they satisfy the proportion. The line segment above exhibits the golden proportions. + The golden number can be defined using a line segment divided into two sections of lengths ''a'' and ''b''. If ''a'' and ''b'' are appropriately chosen, the ratio of ''a'' to ''b'' is the same as the ratio of ''a'' + ''b'' to ''a'' and both ratios are equal to $\varphi$. The line segment above (left) exhibits the golden proportion. The line segments above (right) are also examples of the golden ratio. In each case, - The golden rectangle is made up of line segments exhibiting the golden proportion. Remarkably, when a square is cut off of the golden rectangle, the remaining rectangle also exhibits the golden proportions. This continuing pattern is visible in the golden rectangle above. + + $\frac{{\color{Red}\mathrm{red}}+\color{Blue}\mathrm{blue}}{{\color{Blue}\mathrm{blue}} }= \frac{{\color{Blue}\mathrm{blue}} }{{\color{Red}\mathrm{red}} }= \varphi .$ + +
+ ===The Golden Rectangle=== + A '''golden rectangle''' is any rectangle where the ratio between the sides is equal to phi. When the sides lengths are proportioned in the golden ratio, the rectangle is said to possess the '''golden proportions.''' A golden rectangle has sides of length $\varphi \times r$ and $1 \times r$ where $r$ can be any constant. Remarkably, when a square with side length equal to the shorter side of the rectangle is cut off from one side of the golden rectangle, the remaining rectangle also exhibits the golden proportions. This continuing pattern is visible in the golden rectangle below. + :[[Image:Coloredfinalrectangle1.jpg]] ===Triangles=== ===Triangles=== - [[Image:Final2triangles.jpg|500px]][[Image:Pentagon_final.jpg|300px]] + [[Image:1byrrectangle1.jpg|500px]][[Image:Pentagon_final.jpg|300px]] - The golden ratio $\varphi$ is used to construct the golden triangle, an isoceles triangle that has legs of length $\varphi$ and base length of 1. It is above and to the left. Similarly, the golden gnomon has base ${\varphi}$ and legs of length 1. It is shown above and to the right. These triangles can be used to form pentagrams and pentacles + The golden number, $\varphi$, is used to construct the '''golden triangle,''' an isoceles triangle that has legs of length $\varphi \times r$ and base length of $1 \times r$ where $r$ can be any constant. It is above and to the left. Similarly, the '''golden gnomon''' has base $\varphi \times r$ and legs of length $1 \times r$. It is shown above and to the right. These triangles can be used to form regular pentagons (pictured above) and pentagrams. - The pentacle below (which also includes an inscribed pentagon), generated by the golden triangle and the golden gnomon, has many side lengths proportioned in the golden ratio. + The pentgram below, generated by the golden triangle and the golden gnomon, has many side lengths proportioned in the golden ratio. - :[[Image:Uprightpentagon1.jpg]] + :[[Image:Star1.jpg]] - :$\frac{\mathrm{blue} }{\mathrm{red} } = \frac{\mathrm{red} }{\mathrm{green} } = \frac{\mathrm{green} }{\mathrm{pink} } = \varphi .$ + :::$\frac{{\color{SkyBlue}\mathrm{blue}} }{{\color{Red}\mathrm{red}} } = \frac{{\color{Red}\mathrm{red}} }{{\color{Green}\mathrm{green}} } = \frac{{\color{Green}\mathrm{green}} }{{\color{Magenta}\mathrm{pink}} } = \varphi .$ - These triangles can be used to form [[Field:Fractals| fractals]] and are one of the only ways to tile a plane using pentagonal symmetry. Two fractal examples are shown below. For more real-world applications of the golden ratio [[Fibonacci Numbers|click here!]] + These triangles can be used to form [[Field:Fractals| fractals]] and are one of the only ways to tile a plane using '''pentagonal symmetry'''. Pentagonal symmetry is best explained through example. Below, we have two fractal examples of pentagonal symmetry. Images that exhibit pentagonal symmetry have five symmetry axes. This means that we can draw five lines from the image's center, and all resulting divisions are identical. - [[Image:Penrose-4.jpg|250px]] [[Image:Penrose-21.jpg|250px]] + :[[Image:Penta1.jpg|400px]] - |ImageDesc==Mathematical Representations of the Golden Ratio= + :[[Image:Pent111.jpg|400px]] + |ImageDesc==An Algebraic Derivation of Phi= - + {{SwitchPreview|ShowMessage=Click to expand|hideMessage=Click to hide|PreviewText=How can we derive the value of $\varphi$ from its characteristics as a ratio? We may algebraically solve for the ratio ($\varphi$) by observing that ratio satisfies the following property by definition: - ==An Algebraic Representation== + - + - + - {{SwitchPreview|ShowMessage=Click to expand|HideMessage=Click to hide|PreviewText=We may algebraically solve for the ratio ($\varphi$) by observing that ratio satisfies the following property by definition: + :$\frac{b}{a} = \frac{a+b}{b} = \varphi$|FullText= :$\frac{b}{a} = \frac{a+b}{b} = \varphi$|FullText= Let $r$ denote the ratio : Let $r$ denote the ratio : Line 53: Line 61: So So - :$r=\frac{a+b}{a}=1+\frac{b}{a} =1+\cfrac{1}{a/b}=1+\frac{1}{r}$. + :$r=\frac{a+b}{a}=1+\frac{b}{a}$ which can be rewritten as + + :$1+\cfrac{1}{a/b}=1+\frac{1}{r}$ thus, :$r=1+\frac{1}{r}$ :$r=1+\frac{1}{r}$ Line 69: Line 79: , we get $r = \frac{1 \pm \sqrt{5}} {2}$. , we get $r = \frac{1 \pm \sqrt{5}} {2}$. - Because the ratio has to be a positive value, + The ratio must be positive because we can not have negative line segments or side lengths. Because the ratio has to be a positive value, - :$r=\frac{1 + \sqrt{5}}{2} \approx 1.61803399 \dots =\varphi$. + :$r=\frac{1 + \sqrt{5}}{2} = 1.61803399... =\varphi$. |NumChars=500}} |NumChars=500}} Line 78: Line 88: ==Continued Fraction Representation and [[Fibonacci sequence|Fibonacci Sequences]]== ==Continued Fraction Representation and [[Fibonacci sequence|Fibonacci Sequences]]== - The golden ratio can also be written as what is called a '''continued fraction''' by using recursion. + The golden ratio can also be written as what is called a '''continued fraction,'''a fraction of infinite length whose denominator is a quantity plus a fraction, which latter fraction has a similar denominator, and so on. This is done by using recursion. - {{SwitchPreview|ShowMessage=Click to expand|HideMessage=Click to hide|PreviewText= |FullText=We have already solved for $\varphi$ using the following equation: + {{SwitchPreview|ShowMessage=Click to expand|hideMessage=Click to hide|PreviewText= |FullText=We have already solved for $\varphi$ using the following equation: ${\varphi}^2-{\varphi}-1=0$. ${\varphi}^2-{\varphi}-1=0$. Line 96: Line 106: $\varphi -1= \cfrac{1}{\varphi }$. $\varphi -1= \cfrac{1}{\varphi }$. - Solving for $\varphi$ gives + Adding 1 to both sides gives $\varphi =1+ \cfrac{1}{\varphi }$. $\varphi =1+ \cfrac{1}{\varphi }$. - Now use recursion and substitute in the entire right side of the equation for $\varphi$ in the bottom of the fraction. + Substitute in the entire right side of the equation for $\varphi$ in the bottom of the fraction. $\varphi = 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{\varphi } }$ $\varphi = 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{\varphi } }$ Line 112: Line 122: $\varphi = 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{\cdots}}}$ $\varphi = 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{\cdots}}}$ - This last infinite form is a continued fraction + Continuing this substitution forever, the last infinite form is a continued fraction - If we evaluate truncations of the continued fraction by evaluating only part of the continued fraction (the finite displays above it), replacing $\varphi$ by 1, we produce the ratios between consecutive terms in the [[Fibonacci sequence]]. + If we evaluate truncations of the continued fraction by evaluating only part of the continued fraction, replacing $\varphi$ with 1, we produce the ratios between consecutive terms in the [[Fibonacci sequence]]. $\varphi \approx 1 + \cfrac{1}{1} = 2$ $\varphi \approx 1 + \cfrac{1}{1} = 2$ Line 124: Line 134: $\varphi \approx 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1+\cfrac{1}{1}}}} = 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{2}}} =1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{2}{3}} = 8/5$ $\varphi \approx 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1+\cfrac{1}{1}}}} = 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{2}}} =1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{2}{3}} = 8/5$ - Thus we discover that the golden ratio is approximated in the [[Fibonacci sequence]]. + Thus we discover that the golden ratio is approximated in the Fibonacci sequence. $1,1,2,3,5,8,13,21,34,55,89,144...\,$ $1,1,2,3,5,8,13,21,34,55,89,144...\,$ Line 183: Line 193: $\varphi = 1.61803399...\,$ $\varphi = 1.61803399...\,$ - As you go farther along in the [[Fibonacci sequence]], the ratio between the consecutive terms approaches the golden ratio. + As you go farther along in the Fibonacci sequence, the ratio between the consecutive terms approaches the golden ratio. Many real-world applications of the golden ratio are related to the Fibonacci sequence. For more real-world applications of the golden ratio [[Fibonacci Numbers|click here!]] - In fact, we can prove this relationship using mathematical [[Induction]]. + In fact, we can prove that the ratio between terms in the Fibonacci sequence approaches the golden ratio by using mathematical [[Induction]]. {{Switch|link1=Click to show proof|link2=Click to hide proof|1= |2= {{Switch|link1=Click to show proof|link2=Click to hide proof|1= |2= Line 195: Line 205: we only need to show that each of the terms in the continued fraction is the ratio of Fibonacci numbers as shown above. we only need to show that each of the terms in the continued fraction is the ratio of Fibonacci numbers as shown above. - First, let $x_1=1$, $x_2=1+\frac{1}{1}=1+\frac{1}{x_1}$, $x_3= 1+\frac{1}{1+\frac{1}{1}}=1+\frac{1}{x_2}$ and so on so that $x_n=1+\frac{1}{x_{n-1}}$. + First, let + :$x_1=1$, + :$x_2=1+\frac{1}{1}=1+\frac{1}{x_1}$, + :$x_3= 1+\frac{1}{1+\frac{1}{1}}=1+\frac{1}{x_2}$ and so on so that + :$x_n=1+\frac{1}{x_{n-1}}$. - These are just the same truncated terms as listed above. Let's also denote the terms of the [[Fibonacci sequence]] as $f_n=f_{n-1}+f_{n-2}$ where $f_1=1$,$f_2=1$, and so $f_3=1+1=2$, $f_4=1+2=3$ and so on. + These are just the same truncated terms as listed above. Let's also denote the terms of the Fibonacci sequence as + :$s_n=s_{n-1}+s_{n-2}$ where $s_1=1$,$s_2=1$,$s_3=2$,$s_4=3$ etc.

- We want to show that $x_n=\frac{f_{n+1}}{f_n}$ for all n. + We want to show that + :$x_n=\frac{s_{n+1}}{s_n}$ for all n. - First, we establish our [[Induction|base case]]. We see that $x_1=1=\frac{1}{1}=\frac{f_2}{f_1}$, and so the relationship holds for the base case. + First, we establish our [[Induction|base case]]. We see that + :$x_1=1=\frac{1}{1}=\frac{s_2}{s_1}$, and so the relationship holds for the base case. - Now we assume that $x_k=\frac{f_{k+1}}{f_{k}}$ for some $1 \leq k < n$ (This step is the [[Induction|inductive hypothesis]]). We will show that this implies that $x_{k+1}=\frac{f_{(k+1)+1}}{f_{k+1}}=\frac{f_{k+2}}{f_{k+1}}$. + Now we assume that + :$x_k=\frac{s_{k+1}}{s_{k}}$ for some $1 \leq k < n$ (This step is the [[Induction|inductive hypothesis]]). We will show that this implies that + :$x_{k+1}=\frac{s_{(k+1)+1}}{s_{k+1}}=\frac{s_{k+2}}{s_{k+1}}$.

- By our definition of x_n, we have + By our assumptions about ''x1'',''x2''...''xn'', we have - $x_{k+1}=1+\frac{1}{x_k}$. + :$x_{k+1}=1+\frac{1}{x_k}$. By our inductive hypothesis, this is equivalent to By our inductive hypothesis, this is equivalent to - $x_{k+1}=1+\frac{1}{\frac{f_{k+1}}{f_{k}}}$. + :$x_{k+1}=1+\frac{1}{\frac{s_{k+1}}{s_{k}}}$. Now we only need to complete some simple algebra to see Now we only need to complete some simple algebra to see - $x_{k+1}=1+\frac{f_k}{f_{k+1}}$ + :$x_{k+1}=1+\frac{s_k}{s_{k+1}}$ - $x_{k+1}=\frac{f_{k+1}+f_k}{f_{k+1}}$ + :$x_{k+1}=\frac{s_{k+1}+s_k}{s_{k+1}}$ - Noting the definition of $f_n=f_{n-1}+f_{n-2}$, we see that we have + Noting the definition of $s_n=s_{n-1}+s_{n-2}$, we see that we have - $x_{k+1}=\frac{f_{k+2}}{f_{k+1}}$ + $x_{k+1}=\frac{s_{k+2}}{s_{k+1}}$ - Since that was what we wanted to show, we see that the terms in our continued fraction are represented by ratios of Fibonacci numbers. + So by the principle of mathematical induction, we have shown that the terms in our continued fraction are represented by ratios of consecutive Fibonacci numbers. - The exact continued fraction is $x_{\infty} = \lim_{n\rightarrow \infty}\frac{f_{n+1}}{f_n} =\varphi$. + The exact continued fraction is + :$x_{\infty} = \lim_{n\rightarrow \infty}\frac{s_{n+1}}{s_n} =\varphi$. }}|NumChars=75}} }}|NumChars=75}} Line 236: Line 256: ==Proof of the Golden Ratio's Irrationality== ==Proof of the Golden Ratio's Irrationality== - {{SwitchPreview|ShowMessage=Click to expand|HideMessage=Click to hide|PreviewText= |FullText= + {{SwitchPreview|ShowMessage=Click to expand|hideMessage=Click to hide|PreviewText= |FullText= - Remarkably, the Golden Ratio is irrational, despite the fact that we just proved that is approximated by a ratio of Fibonacci numbers. + Remarkably, the Golden Ratio is irrational, despite the fact that we just proved that is approximated by a ratio of Fibonacci numbers. - We will use the method of contradiction to prove that the golden ratio is irrational. + We will use the method of contradiction to prove that the golden ratio is irrational. - Suppose $\varphi$ is rational. Then it can be written as fraction in lowest terms $\varphi = b/a$, where a and b are integers. + Suppose $\varphi$ is rational. Then it can be written as fraction in lowest terms $\varphi = b/a$, where ''a'' and ''b'' are integers. Our goal is to find a different fraction that is equal to $\varphi$ and is in lower terms. This will be our contradiction that will show that $\varphi$ is irrational. Our goal is to find a different fraction that is equal to $\varphi$ and is in lower terms. This will be our contradiction that will show that $\varphi$ is irrational. Line 250: Line 270: Now, since we know Now, since we know - $\frac{b}{a}=\frac{a+b}{b}$ + :$\frac{b}{a}=\frac{a+b}{b}$ - we see that $b^2=a(a+b)$ by cross multiplication. Writing this all the way out gives us $b^2=a^2+ab$. + we see that $b^2=a(a+b)$ by cross multiplication. Foiling this expression gives us $b^2=a^2+ab$. - Rearranging this gives us $b^2-ab=a^2$, which is the same as $b(b-a)=a^2$. + Rearranging this gives us $b^2-ab=a^2$, which is the same as :$b(b-a)=a^2$. - Dividing both sides of the equation by $(b-a)$ and $a$ gives us that + Dividing both sides of the equation by ''a(b-a)'' gives us - $\frac{b}{a}=\frac{a}{b-a}$. + :$\frac{b}{a}=\frac{a}{b-a}$. - Since $\varphi=\frac{b}{a}$, we can see that $\varphi=\frac{a}{b-a}$. + Since $\varphi=\frac{b}{a}$, this means $\varphi=\frac{a}{b-a}$. Since we have assumed that a and b are integers, we know that b-a must also be an integer. Furthermore, since [itex] a |References= - |ToDo=-animation + |ToDo=-animation? + + http://www.metaphorical.net/note/on/golden_ratio + http://www.mathopenref.com/rectanglegolden.html |InProgress=Yes |InProgress=Yes - |HideMME=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=Yes + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No + } + |Field=Algebra + |InProgress=No }} }}

## Revision as of 13:42, 18 July 2012

The Golden Ratio
Fields: Algebra and Geometry
Image Created By: azavez1
Website: The Math Forum

The Golden Ratio

The golden number, often denoted by lowercase Greek letter "phi", is
${\varphi}=\frac{1 + \sqrt{5}}{2} = 1.61803399...$.

The term golden ratio refers to any ratio which has the value phi. The image to the right illustrates dividing and subdividing a rectangle into the golden ratio. The result is fractal-like. This page explores real world applications for the golden ratio, common misconceptions about the golden ratio, and multiple derivations of the golden number.

# Basic Description

Does the Mona Lisa exhibit the golden ratio?
The golden number, approximately 1.618, is called golden because many geometric figures involving this ratio are often said to possess special beauty. Be that true or not, the ratio has many beautiful and surprising mathematical properties. The Greeks were aware of the golden ratio, but did not consider it particularly significant with respect to aesthetics. It was not called the "divine" proportion until the 15th century, and was not called "golden" ratio until the 18th century. [1]
Markowsky has determined the above dimensions to be incorrect.

Since then, it has been claimed that the golden ratio is the most aesthetically pleasing ratio, and claimed that this ratio has appeared in architecture and art throughout history. Among the most common such claims are that the Parthenon and Leonardo Da Vinci's Mona Lisa use the golden ratio. Even more esoteric claims propose that the golden ratio can be found in the human facial structure, the behavior of the stock market, and the Great Pyramids.
However, such claims have been criticized in scholarly journals as wishful thinking or sloppy mathematical analysis. Additionally, there is no solid evidence that supports the claim that the golden rectangle is the most aesthetically pleasing rectangle.[2]

### Misconceptions about the Golden Ratio

Many rumors and misconceptions surround the golden ratio. There have been many claims that the golden ratio appears in art and architecture. In reality, many of these claims involve warped images and large margins of error. One claim is that the Great Pyramids exhibit the golden ratio in their construction. This belief is illustrated below.

In his paper, Misconceptions about the Golden Ratio, George Markowsky disputes this claim, arguing that the dimensions assumed in the picture are not anywhere close to being correct. Another belief is that a series of golden rectangles appears in the Mona Lisa. However, the placing of the golden rectangles seems arbitrary. Markowsky also disputes the belief that the human body exhibits the golden ratio. To read more, click here!

#### What do you think?

George Markowsky argues that, like the Mona Lisa, the Parthenon does not exhibit a series of golden rectangles (discussed below). Do you think the Parthenon was designed with the golden ratio in mind or is the image below simply a stretch of the imagination?

[3]

## A Geometric Representation

### The Golden Ratio in a Line Segment

The golden number can be defined using a line segment divided into two sections of lengths a and b. If a and b are appropriately chosen, the ratio of a to b is the same as the ratio of a + b to a and both ratios are equal to $\varphi$. The line segment above (left) exhibits the golden proportion. The line segments above (right) are also examples of the golden ratio. In each case,

$\frac{{\color{Red}\mathrm{red}}+\color{Blue}\mathrm{blue}}{{\color{Blue}\mathrm{blue}} }= \frac{{\color{Blue}\mathrm{blue}} }{{\color{Red}\mathrm{red}} }= \varphi .$

### The Golden Rectangle

A golden rectangle is any rectangle where the ratio between the sides is equal to phi. When the sides lengths are proportioned in the golden ratio, the rectangle is said to possess the golden proportions. A golden rectangle has sides of length $\varphi \times r$ and $1 \times r$ where $r$ can be any constant. Remarkably, when a square with side length equal to the shorter side of the rectangle is cut off from one side of the golden rectangle, the remaining rectangle also exhibits the golden proportions. This continuing pattern is visible in the golden rectangle below.

### Triangles

The golden number, $\varphi$, is used to construct the golden triangle, an isoceles triangle that has legs of length $\varphi \times r$ and base length of $1 \times r$ where $r$ can be any constant. It is above and to the left. Similarly, the golden gnomon has base $\varphi \times r$ and legs of length $1 \times r$. It is shown above and to the right. These triangles can be used to form regular pentagons (pictured above) and pentagrams.

The pentgram below, generated by the golden triangle and the golden gnomon, has many side lengths proportioned in the golden ratio.

$\frac{{\color{SkyBlue}\mathrm{blue}} }{{\color{Red}\mathrm{red}} } = \frac{{\color{Red}\mathrm{red}} }{{\color{Green}\mathrm{green}} } = \frac{{\color{Green}\mathrm{green}} }{{\color{Magenta}\mathrm{pink}} } = \varphi .$

These triangles can be used to form fractals and are one of the only ways to tile a plane using pentagonal symmetry. Pentagonal symmetry is best explained through example. Below, we have two fractal examples of pentagonal symmetry. Images that exhibit pentagonal symmetry have five symmetry axes. This means that we can draw five lines from the image's center, and all resulting divisions are identical.

# A More Mathematical Explanation

Note: understanding of this explanation requires: *Algebra, Geometry

# An Algebraic Derivation of Phi

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# An Algebraic Derivation of Phi

How can we derive the value of $\varphi$ from its characteristics as a ratio? We may algebraically solve for the ratio ($\varphi$) by observing that ratio satisfies the following property by definition:

$\frac{b}{a} = \frac{a+b}{b} = \varphi$

Let $r$ denote the ratio :

$r=\frac{a}{b}=\frac{a+b}{a}$.

So

$r=\frac{a+b}{a}=1+\frac{b}{a}$ which can be rewritten as
$1+\cfrac{1}{a/b}=1+\frac{1}{r}$ thus,
$r=1+\frac{1}{r}$

Multiplying both sides by $r$, we get

${r}^2=r+1$

which can be written as:

$r^2 - r - 1 = 0$.

Applying the quadratic formula , we get $r = \frac{1 \pm \sqrt{5}} {2}$.

The ratio must be positive because we can not have negative line segments or side lengths. Because the ratio has to be a positive value,

$r=\frac{1 + \sqrt{5}}{2} = 1.61803399... =\varphi$.

## Continued Fraction Representation and Fibonacci Sequences

The golden ratio can also be written as what is called a continued fraction,a fraction of infinite length whose denominator is a quantity plus a fraction, which latter fraction has a similar denominator, and so on. This is done by using recursion.

We have already solved for $\varphi$ using the following equation:

${\varphi}^2-{\varphi}-1=0$.

We can add one to both sides of the equation to get

${\varphi}^2-{\varphi}=1$.

Factoring this gives

$\varphi(\varphi-1)=1$.

Dividing by $\varphi$ gives us

$\varphi -1= \cfrac{1}{\varphi }$.

Adding 1 to both sides gives

$\varphi =1+ \cfrac{1}{\varphi }$.

Substitute in the entire right side of the equation for $\varphi$ in the bottom of the fraction.

$\varphi = 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{\varphi } }$

Substituting in again,

$\varphi = 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{\varphi}}}$

$\varphi = 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{\cdots}}}$

Continuing this substitution forever, the last infinite form is a continued fraction

If we evaluate truncations of the continued fraction by evaluating only part of the continued fraction, replacing $\varphi$ with 1, we produce the ratios between consecutive terms in the Fibonacci sequence.

$\varphi \approx 1 + \cfrac{1}{1} = 2$

$\varphi \approx 1 + \cfrac{1}{1+\cfrac{1}{1}} = 3/2$

$\varphi \approx 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1} } } = 5/3$

$\varphi \approx 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1+\cfrac{1}{1}}}} = 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{2}}} =1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{2}{3}} = 8/5$

Thus we discover that the golden ratio is approximated in the Fibonacci sequence.

$1,1,2,3,5,8,13,21,34,55,89,144...\,$

 $1/1$ $=$ $1$ $2/1$ $=$ $2$ $3/2$ $=$ $1.5$ $8/5$ $=$ $1.6$ $13/8$ $=$ $1.625$ $21/13$ $=$ $1.61538462...$ $34/21$ $=$ $1.61904762...$ $55/34$ $=$ $1.61764706...$ $89/55$ $=$ $1.61818182...$

$\varphi = 1.61803399...\,$

As you go farther along in the Fibonacci sequence, the ratio between the consecutive terms approaches the golden ratio. Many real-world applications of the golden ratio are related to the Fibonacci sequence. For more real-world applications of the golden ratio click here!

In fact, we can prove that the ratio between terms in the Fibonacci sequence approaches the golden ratio by using mathematical Induction.

Since we have already shown that

$\varphi = 1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{1 + \cfrac{1}{\cdots}}}$,

we only need to show that each of the terms in the continued fraction is the ratio of Fibonacci numbers as shown above.

First, let

$x_1=1$,
$x_2=1+\frac{1}{1}=1+\frac{1}{x_1}$,
$x_3= 1+\frac{1}{1+\frac{1}{1}}=1+\frac{1}{x_2}$ and so on so that
$x_n=1+\frac{1}{x_{n-1}}$.

These are just the same truncated terms as listed above. Let's also denote the terms of the Fibonacci sequence as

$s_n=s_{n-1}+s_{n-2}$ where $s_1=1$,$s_2=1$,$s_3=2$,$s_4=3$ etc.

We want to show that

$x_n=\frac{s_{n+1}}{s_n}$ for all n.

First, we establish our base case. We see that

$x_1=1=\frac{1}{1}=\frac{s_2}{s_1}$, and so the relationship holds for the base case.

Now we assume that

$x_k=\frac{s_{k+1}}{s_{k}}$ for some $1 \leq k < n$ (This step is the inductive hypothesis). We will show that this implies that
$x_{k+1}=\frac{s_{(k+1)+1}}{s_{k+1}}=\frac{s_{k+2}}{s_{k+1}}$.

By our assumptions about x1,x2...xn, we have

$x_{k+1}=1+\frac{1}{x_k}$.

By our inductive hypothesis, this is equivalent to

$x_{k+1}=1+\frac{1}{\frac{s_{k+1}}{s_{k}}}$.

Now we only need to complete some simple algebra to see

$x_{k+1}=1+\frac{s_k}{s_{k+1}}$
$x_{k+1}=\frac{s_{k+1}+s_k}{s_{k+1}}$

Noting the definition of $s_n=s_{n-1}+s_{n-2}$, we see that we have

$x_{k+1}=\frac{s_{k+2}}{s_{k+1}}$

So by the principle of mathematical induction, we have shown that the terms in our continued fraction are represented by ratios of consecutive Fibonacci numbers.

The exact continued fraction is

$x_{\infty} = \lim_{n\rightarrow \infty}\frac{s_{n+1}}{s_n} =\varphi$.

## Proof of the Golden Ratio's Irrationality

Remarkably, the Golden Ratio is irrational, despite the fact that we just proved that is approximated by a ratio of Fibonacci numbers. We will use the method of contradiction to prove that the golden ratio is irrational.

Suppose $\varphi$ is rational. Then it can be written as fraction in lowest terms $\varphi = b/a$, where a and b are integers.

Our goal is to find a different fraction that is equal to $\varphi$ and is in lower terms. This will be our contradiction that will show that $\varphi$ is irrational.

First note that the definition of $\varphi = \frac{b}{a}=\frac{a+b}{b}$ implies that $b > a$ since clearly $b+a>b$ and the two fractions must be equal.

Now, since we know

$\frac{b}{a}=\frac{a+b}{b}$

we see that $b^2=a(a+b)$ by cross multiplication. Foiling this expression gives us $b^2=a^2+ab$.

Rearranging this gives us $b^2-ab=a^2$, which is the same as :$b(b-a)=a^2$.

Dividing both sides of the equation by a(b-a) gives us

$\frac{b}{a}=\frac{a}{b-a}$.

Since $\varphi=\frac{b}{a}$, this means $\varphi=\frac{a}{b-a}$.

Since we have assumed that a and b are integers, we know that b-a must also be an integer. Furthermore, since $a, we know that $\frac{a}{b-a}$ must be in lower terms than $\frac{b}{a}$.

Since we have found a fraction of integers that is equal to $\varphi$, but is in lower terms than $\frac{b}{a}$, we have a contradiction: $\frac{b}{a}$ cannot be a fraction of integers in lowest terms. Therefore $\varphi$ cannot be expressed as a fraction of integers and is irrational.

• Markowsky. “Misconceptions about the Golden Ratio.” College Mathematics Journal. Vol 23, No 1 (1992). pp 2-19.

# References

1. "Golden ratio", Retrieved on 20 June 2012.
2. "Misconceptions about the Golden Ratio", Retrieved on 24 June 2012.
3. "Parthenon", Retrieved on 16 May 2012.

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