A
plane algebraic curve is the zero
locus in
R2 or
C2 of a
polynomial in two
variables
f(x,y).
(Or more generally in
algebraic geometry one
can work over any
field).
For example the unit circle is the zero locus of the polynomial
x2 + y2 -1.
Here are some interesting curves.
I'll slowly work through and node these. If you have one to
add to the list /msg me.
If you feel competent and you want to node something on the list feel free,
but please let me
know to avoid duplication of effort. A good writeup should include some
historical background and the equation of the curve.