The captivating light patterns, known as caustics, that appear in a coffee cup result from intriguing mathematical principles. These shapes, sometimes reminiscent of hearts or other familiar forms, arise from light reflecting off the curved interior of the mug. Examining ray tracing and parametric equations makes it clear that these curves are mathematically related to a shape called a nephroid. This everyday occurrence beautifully illustrates the interplay of light, geometry, and mathematics, providing insight into the subtle patterns that often go unnoticed.
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