A fractal is a complex geometric shape that can be split into parts, each of which is a reduced-scale copy of the whole. This property is known as self-similarity. Fractals are often found in nature, such as in the shapes of snowflakes, mountains, and trees, where similar patterns recur at different scales. Fractals can be created mathematically using iterative processes, leading to intricate designs like the Mandelbrot set or Julia sets. These mathematical constructs are not only visually striking but also have applications in various fields, including computer graphics, natural phenomena modeling, and even signal processing.