Fractal

fractal - [mathematics] A geometric pattern that repeats itself, at least roughly, at ever smaller scales to produce self-similar, irregular shapes and surfaces that cannot be represented using classical geometry. If a fractal curve of infinite length serves as the boundary of a plane region, the region itself will be finite. Fractals can be used to model complex natural shapes such as clouds and coastlines.

[Category=Geospatial ]

Source: esri, 23 April 2012 10:21:45, http://support.esri.com/en/knowledgebase/GISDictionary/term/abbreviation