OBJECTIVE DETERMINATION OF BRANCHING ANGLES IN FRACTALS

We propose an objective pattern recognition procedure to determine bra nching angles in a-dimensional fractals. Recognition is performed by c orrelating the object with V-shaped identifiers. We define a quantitat ive criterion to prove the existence of characteristic branching angle s in such figures. The whole procedure is tested on a mathematical (sn owflake) fractal and then applied to a few physical examples. A neat c haracteristic angle is found in dendritic aggregates, in agreement wit h visual impression. However, the procedure does not find any dominant branching angle in basic Witten and Sander aggregates.