Column

  1. Math

    Musical Illusions

    An auditory phenomenon that resembles a familiar optical illusion sheds light on how our brains process sound.

    By
  2. Math

    Trisecting an Angle with Origami

    A paper-folding technique can solve a classic math problem.

    By
  3. Math

    Covering New Ground with Polygons

    Mathematicians can cover larger areas than they'd realized using polygons with fixed diameters.

    By
  4. Math

    Miles from Nowhere

    Scientists have developed a new technique for calculating the ecological value of road-free areas of land and representing them geometrically.

    By
  5. Math

    A Grove of Evolutionary Trees

    "Trees of life" show patterns of evolutionary descent, and they fit together mathematically to form an abstract forest.

    By
  6. Math

    The Mathematical Lives of Plants

    Scientists are figuring out why plants grow in spiral patterns that incorporate the 'golden angle'.

    By
  7. Computing

    Computer, Name That Tune!

    Computers can analyze music mathematically and use the result to track down songs, without even knowing the composer, performer, or title.

    By
  8. Math

    Forms of Symmetry

    Group theory inspires a West Coast sculptor.

    By
  9. Math

    Euler’s Beautiful Equation

    Leonhard Euler, one of the greatest mathematicians of all time, was born 300 years ago on April 15, 1707.

    By
  10. Math

    Can’t Knock It Down

    Mathematicians have found three-dimensional shapes that flip themselves upright from any position.

    By
  11. Math

    Math Circles Inspire Students

    Programs outside of school are helping students discover math on their own.

    By
  12. Math

    Computing Photographic Forgeries

    Scientists are using mathematical tools to sniff out faked photographs.

    By