Ever wondered why spirals are found everywhere, from whirlpools and galaxies, to shells and DNA? Do you know how zebras form their stripes, or why each snowflake is so intricate and unique? The beauty of mathematics is all around us, from the very smallest of molecules and bacteria right up to the scale of our entire universe - the largest structure of all. In this fascinating and aceessible illustrated guide, Ian Stewart explains the numbers and mathematical concepts that underpin everything we can observe in nature. With over 150 full- colur photographs and diagrams, this book explores humankind's desire to understand the beauty and mind-boggling coplexity of the naturalworld in all its many varied forms.