golden section

noun

, Fine Arts, Mathematics.

a ratio between two portions of a line, or the two dimensions of a plane figure, in which the lesser of the two is to the greater as the greater is to the sum of both: a ratio of approximately 0.618 to 1.000.

golden section

See golden ratio
the proportion of the two divisions of a straight line or the two dimensions of a plane figure such that the smaller is to the larger as the larger is to the sum of the two. If the sides of a rectangle are in this proportion and a square is constructed internally on the shorter side, the rectangle that remains will also have sides in the same proportion Compare golden ratio

golden section

/ gōl′dən /

The ratio between two numbers a and b chosen such that the ratio of a to b is equal to the ratio of a+b to a . Its value is approximately 1.618. Shapes with proportions equal to the golden section are observed especially in the fine arts and in architecture, as between the two dimensions of a plane figure such as a rectangle. The ratio between consecutive numbers in a Fibonacci sequence approximates the golden section with increasing precision as the series progresses.
Also called golden mean golden ratio

First recorded in 1870–75

It is unnecessary for us to discuss the intrinsic beauty of curves, or the mental satisfaction afforded by the golden section.

Besides, such an interpretation could not apply to divisions widely variant from the golden section.

Investigators have confined their efforts to statistical records of approximations to, or deviations from, the golden section.

The division of a line at the golden section produces 'apparently equal differences' between minor and major, and major and whole.

Starting with the golden section, we find the two lines representing the total averages running surprisingly close to it.

April 24, 2024gallimaufry

[gal-uh-maw-free ]

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