The Shape of Shells: She Sells Self-Similar Spiral Seashells on the Seashore

This event is a repeat of an earlier lecture given by Professor Goriely, which was not recorded due to technical difficulties.

It is impossible not to marvel at the beauty and regularity of seashells. These intricate forms are crafted by a humble architect—the living mollusc—building them layer by layer. Despite their remarkable diversity, the fundamental geometry of most seashells is governed by simple mathematical rules, resulting in elegant three-dimensional self-similar structures. Beyond this basic framework, molluscs embellish their shells with fascinating features such as wrinkles, spines, and spikes. This lecture reveals how a mathematical theory of seashell growth explains the origins of these features and resolves many enduring questions in biology.

Please note: The lecture is scheduled to begin at 4:00 pm. Doors will open at 3:30 pm.