Fibonacci cactus — one angle, many spirals (3D)

About this app

Every new areole forms at the apex, turned by the same angle against the previous one. At the golden angle of 137.5° the cactus shows 8, 13 and 21 spirals; half a degree off, the pattern breaks into arms with gaps, and at 144° into five straight spokes. Change the angle live, watch it grow, colour and count the spirals.

Subject: Biology & neuroscience

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