Head or tails. A concept image showing both sides of an antique coin.
Applied Math

The Nature of Randomness

February 25, 2017

Randomness can be confusing to the human mind, because its expression is often quite different than what we expect it might be. […]

Power of zero (Image: AnaitSmi/Shutterstock)
Applied Math

The Power of Zero

February 15, 2017

A compact, place-based number system with a symbol for zero opens the floodgates for arithmetic calculations and the discovery of new numbers. […]

Encrypted Data Privacy Online Security Protection Concept
Applied Math

How to Make an Unbreakable Code

January 18, 2017

By Edward B. Burger, Southwestern University Throughout history, people have had a desire to keep certain information hidden from other people. Communications involving business transactions, […]

Applied Math

The Power of a Mathematical Picture

December 22, 2016

If a picture is worth a thousand words, in mathematics, a picture can spawn a thousand ideas. A picture can provide deep understanding, prompt an idea or process to suddenly make sense, and lead the way to finally understanding a tricky piece of mathematics. […]

Greek philosopher Plato
Applied Math

Mathematics and Plato’s Guardians

December 14, 2016

By David Roochnik, PhD, Boston University In Plato’s Republic, the great philosopher lays out his thoughts and prescriptions for the best way to organize society. Power, he […]