Fibonacci Explorer

Explore the Fibonacci sequence, golden ratio, and mathematical beauty

Generate Fibonacci Sequence

Golden Ratio Convergence

Watch how the ratio of consecutive Fibonacci numbers converges to φ (phi), the golden ratio.

Binet's Formula Calculator

Calculate Fibonacci numbers directly using Binet's formula: F(n) = (φⁿ - ψⁿ) / √5

Fibonacci Spiral

Visualize the Fibonacci spiral constructed from Fibonacci-sized squares.

Mathematical Properties & Identities

Help

What is the Fibonacci sequence?

The Fibonacci sequence is a series of numbers where each number is the sum of the two preceding ones.

Sequence: 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89...

Rule: F(n) = F(n-1) + F(n-2), with F(0) = 0, F(1) = 1

What is the golden ratio (φ)?

The golden ratio, φ (phi), is approximately 1.618033988... It's the limit of the ratios of consecutive Fibonacci numbers.

Mathematical definition: φ = (1 + √5) / 2

Unique property: φ² = φ + 1 and 1/φ = φ - 1

How does Binet's formula work?

Binet's formula calculates any Fibonacci number directly without computing all previous numbers:

F(n) = (φⁿ - ψⁿ) / √5

where φ = (1 + √5)/2 ≈ 1.618 and ψ = (1 - √5)/2 ≈ -0.618

Despite using irrational numbers, it always produces integers!

Where does Fibonacci appear in nature?

Fibonacci numbers and spirals appear throughout nature:

  • Plants: Leaf arrangements, flower petals, seed heads
  • Shells: Nautilus and other spiral shells
  • Trees: Branching patterns
  • Galaxies: Spiral arm patterns
  • Hurricanes: Spiral formations
What is Cassini's Identity?

Cassini's identity states: F(n-1) × F(n+1) - F(n)² = (-1)ⁿ

This means the difference alternates between +1 and -1.

Example: For n=5: F(4)×F(6) - F(5)² = 3×8 - 25 = -1 ✓