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Mathematics

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A New Tool to Help Mathematicians Pack

December 20, 2013

Improvements in how densely spheres and other shapes can be packed together could lead to advances in materials science, deep space communication and theoretical physics.

To Settle Infinity Dispute, a New Law of Logic

November 26, 2013

To determine the nature of infinity, mathematicians face a choice between two new logical axioms. What they decide could help shape the future of mathematical truth.

Together and Alone, Closing the Prime Gap

November 19, 2013

Working on the centuries-old twin primes conjecture, two solitary researchers and a massive collaboration have made enormous advances over the last six months.

The Mathematical Shape of Things to Come

October 4, 2013

Scientific data sets are becoming more dynamic, requiring new mathematical techniques on par with the invention of calculus.

A Jewel at the Heart of Quantum Physics

September 17, 2013

Physicists have discovered a jewel-shaped geometric object that challenges the notion that space and time are fundamental constituents of nature.

Mathematicians Shed Light on Minimalist Conjecture

July 9, 2013

Two young mathematicians are illuminating a frontier in the study of rational solutions to polynomial equations: the cubics.

Unheralded Mathematician Bridges the Prime Gap

May 19, 2013

A virtually unknown researcher has made a great advance in one of mathematics’ oldest problems, the twin primes conjecture.

Scientists Parse Ocean’s Dynamic Role in Climate Change

April 11, 2013

New data collected by mathematicians and oceanographers in the frigid waters of the Southern Ocean could dramatically improve climate models.

Treading Softly in a Connected World

March 18, 2013

In an increasingly interconnected world, scientists are seeking safeguards against catastrophic cascades of failure like stock market crashes and widespread blackouts.

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