What is symmetry, or how does nature help the inhabitants of the planet

We know everything about symmetry since we were at school. Teachers of the initial geometry explained this concept in detail to us by examples of a circle, a square or less symmetrical triangle and an oval. However, in addition to dry definition, the symmetry along with the golden section plays an important role in nature. The existence of its bilateral significance in living organisms has been noted for a very long time. Now we will consider how the existence of symmetry helps us.

What is symmetry? The very word came to us from the Greek language, and it means proportionality. Dictionaries interpret this meaning in different ways, but the essence is one. Symmetry - the location of one or more objects in proportion or in harmony with each other. As a rule, in order to determine whether parts of one whole are symmetric, an imaginary mirror plane is built between them. It can be unique, as well as grow in quantity. The parts of the object must be mirror images of each other in these planes. If they perfectly match this statement, then you can clearly see what symmetry is.

The most precise definition of the element under consideration is the theory of crystals, since they are all perfectly symmetric. In addition, symmetry is found in the structure of plants, mirror planes are divided into several identical parts of the branch, flowers, their organs and parts. Animals and people are also not deprived of it, but to a lesser extent, and it is called bilateral, that is, bilateral. For example, if you hold a vertical mirror plane (it can only be unique here), then the two parts will be symmetrical. Thus, symmetry in nature and in practice, rather than only in geometry, has become widespread enough.

Discoveries of paleontologists forced scientists to reconsider their previous opinions. The fact is that the appearance of bilateral symmetry is noted 40 million years earlier than expected. This suggests that nature created more adapted multicellular creatures long before the first inclinations of man appeared. It can not be said that the latter acquired all the positive elements that bilateral symmetry could give him, but without them he could not survive.

Consider, for example, two eyes. Thanks to them, man and animal can look at the surrounding world, as a three-dimensional space. They can determine how close or far away a particular object is from them. It should be noted how useful binocular vision is for predators, because without it they can not catch prey, which means their survival will be in question. Do not stand aside and herbivores, their eyes are located on both sides of the head, which allows them to fully examine the area around them. This significantly reduces their chances of becoming prey to a predator. Two ears allow not only to hear the sound, but also to determine its source. Two legs help you to move around peacefully, without losing balance.

Thus, speaking of what is symmetry, one can not bypass its useful qualities. After all, if nature did not reward us with them, then our existence would have stopped long ago.