Math
31 articles-
The Math of the Amazing Sandpile
To understand self-organization in nature, behold the sandpile. -
Why Mathematicians Should Stop Naming Things After Each Other
A past generation’s glory can be the next generation’s headache. -
Why COVID-19 Flare-Ups Will Keep Happening
Like earthquakes and forest fires, outbreaks have a “heavy tail” of large events. -
To Beat COVID-19, Think Like a Fighter Pilot
How an aerial-combat theory can help fight the outbreak. -
Mapping Gay-Friendly Cities Through History
A data analyst uncovers a timeless message about correlation.
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Are Neural Networks About to Reinvent Physics?
The revolution of machine learning has been greatly exaggerated.
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How Search Algorithms Are Changing the Course of Mathematics
The sum-of-three-cubes problem solved for “stubborn” number 33.
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The Math That Takes Newton Into the Quantum World
How a math professor learned to stop worrying and love algebraic geometry. -
Does Scrabble Need To Be Fixed?
An experiment in controlling how much of Scrabble is luck. -
Kolmogorov Complexity and Our Search for Meaning
What math can teach us about finding order in our chaotic lives. -
You’re Descended from Royalty and So Is Everybody Else
Anybody you can name from ancient history is in your family tree. -
How to Teach Science with Sugar and Cream
High school teachers are bringing ice cream into the lab.
