Math Talks: Jamie Pommersheim - Dissecting a Square into Triangles
Thursday, September 25, 4:10 PM - 5:100 PM
Physics 123
This event is open only to current Reed students, faculty, and staff.
Come hear Prof. Jamie Pommersheim's lecture:
“Dissecting a square into triangles”
You can do this in many ways. You can even arrange for all the triangles have exactly the same area. However, an old theorem (1970) of Paul Monsky asserts that it is impossible to cut a square into an odd number of triangles of equal area. The proof of this theorem is a delightful blend of geometry, combinatorics, and number theory. This aim of this talk is to prove Monsky’s Theorem and understand some of the geometrical, combinatorial, and algebraic ingredients that go into its proof.
The talk may also serve as motivation for Aaron Abrams’s talk next week (October 2), in which Aaron will probably discuss a current research project which grew out of a desire to better understand Monsky’s Theorem.
All are welcome. Free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.
For more information, visit:
http://www.reed.edu/math/seminars/index.html.
Submitted by Kim Kadas.
Posted on Sep 19, 2014
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- Department Seminars