Turing patterns form as a result of a particular kind of chemical reaction: a reaction-diffusion system. It consists of an activator chemical capable of making more of itself, and an inhibitor chemical which slows the production of the activator as well as a mechanism for diffusing the chemicals. Although Turing’s original work was theoretical in nature, scientists have since proven that Turing patterns do occur in nature, both in petri dishes and in the markings of animals. Here artist Jonathan McCabe explores multi-scale Turing patterns in a fluid-like environment. (Video credit: Jonathan McCabe and Jason Forrest; submitted by Stuart R)
Turing Patterns
