Wavelet analysis of the multifractal character of the galaxy distribution

Abstract

We have determined generalized dimensions of the observed distribution of galaxies. Their different values indicate that this distribution may be described as a multifractal. In order to analyse this distribution further, we have applied local wavelet transforms. Wavelets provide us with an interesting tool to analyse the large-scale structure which can be mathematically quantified and intuitively visualized. Comparing the results of these transforms at different dilation factors helps to visualize more clearly the nearly singular nature of the distribution. This method also allows us to determine the range of the local density power laws. The existence of different exponents is evidence for the essentially multifractal nature of the distribution.