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Mathematics

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A Unified Theory of Randomness

August 2, 2016

Researchers have uncovered deep connections among different types of random objects, illuminating hidden geometric structures.

A Bird’s-Eye View of Nature’s Hidden Order

July 12, 2016

Scientists are exploring a mysterious pattern, found in birds’ eyes, boxes of marbles and other surprising places, that is neither regular nor random.

Handicapping the 2018 Fields Medal

June 28, 2016

Peter Scholze is a favorite to win one of the highest honors in mathematics for his contributions in number theory and geometry.

The Oracle of Arithmetic

June 28, 2016

At 28, Peter Scholze is uncovering deep connections between number theory and geometry.

Simple Set Game Proof Stuns Mathematicians

May 31, 2016

A new series of papers has settled a long-standing question related to the popular game in which players seek patterned sets of three cards.

Mathematicians Bridge Finite-Infinite Divide

May 24, 2016

A surprising new proof is helping to connect the mathematics of infinity to the physical world.

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A Life Inspired by an Unexpected Genius

May 19, 2016

Greatness was always expected of Ken Ono. But as he struggled with his parents’ expectations, he found solace and inspiration in the life of two-time college dropout — and mathematical genius — Srinivasa Ramanujan, the subject of the film The Man Who Knew Infinity.

Sphere Packing Solved in Higher Dimensions

March 30, 2016

The Ukrainian mathematician Maryna Viazovska has solved the centuries-old sphere-packing problem in dimensions eight and 24.

Mathematicians Discover Prime Conspiracy

March 13, 2016

A previously unnoticed property of prime numbers seems to violate a long-standing assumption about how they behave.

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