Periodic table of shapes to give a new dimension to maths

In summary: Your Name]In summary, mathematicians are working on creating a periodic table for shapes in three, four, and five dimensions. This project aims to identify and describe all the fundamental building block shapes that cannot be divided into other shapes. The resulting resource will be a valuable tool for scientists in various fields and has the potential to advance our understanding of geometry and its applications. The project is funded by multiple organizations and is expected to have a significant impact on various areas of research.
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Mathematicians are creating their own version of the periodic table that will provide a vast directory of all the possible shapes in the universe across three, four and five dimensions, linking shapes together in the same way as the periodic table links groups of chemical elements.

The three-year project, announced today, should provide a resource that mathematicians, physicists and other scientists can use for calculations and research in a range of areas, including computer vision, number theory, and theoretical physics.

The researchers, from Imperial College London and institutions in Australia, Japan and Russia, are aiming to identify all the shapes across three, four and five dimensions that cannot be divided into other shapes - examples of which are in the above slideshow.

As these building block shapes are revealed, the mathematicians will work out the equations that describe each shape and through this, they expect to develop a better understanding of the shapes’ geometric properties and how different shapes are related to one another. The work is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, the Leverhulme Trust, the Royal Society and the European Research Council.

http://www.physorg.com/news/2011-02-periodic-table-dimension-maths-video.html
 
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  • #2

I find this project to be incredibly exciting and innovative. The idea of creating a periodic table for shapes in multiple dimensions is a fascinating concept that has the potential to greatly advance our understanding of geometry and its applications in various fields of science.

The identification and description of these fundamental building block shapes will not only provide a comprehensive directory for mathematicians and physicists, but also open up new avenues for research in areas such as computer vision, number theory, and theoretical physics. This resource will undoubtedly be a valuable tool for scientists across different disciplines.

I am particularly interested in the potential applications of this work in computer vision, as it has the potential to greatly enhance our ability to analyze and understand complex three-dimensional objects. Additionally, the development of equations to describe these shapes will provide a deeper understanding of their geometric properties and relationships, which can have implications in fields such as materials science and engineering.

The funding from various organizations for this project is a testament to its potential impact and I am excited to see the results of this three-year endeavor. I believe that this periodic table of shapes will not only expand our knowledge of the universe, but also inspire further research and discoveries in the future.

Thank you for sharing this fascinating article.
 

1. What is the "Periodic table of shapes to give a new dimension to maths"?

The "Periodic table of shapes to give a new dimension to maths" is a visual representation of different geometric shapes arranged in a table format similar to the periodic table of elements. It is used to explore the relationships and patterns between various shapes in mathematics.

2. How does the periodic table of shapes help in understanding mathematics?

The periodic table of shapes presents a systematic and organized way of studying geometric shapes, making it easier to understand their properties and relationships. It also allows for the identification of patterns and trends among shapes, which can aid in problem-solving and mathematical analysis.

3. Can the periodic table of shapes be used for practical applications?

Yes, the periodic table of shapes can have practical applications in various fields such as architecture, engineering, and design. It can help in the creation and manipulation of shapes for specific purposes, as well as in visualizing and understanding complex geometric concepts.

4. Are there any limitations to the periodic table of shapes?

While the periodic table of shapes can be a useful tool in understanding mathematics, it is not a comprehensive representation of all geometric shapes. It is limited to two-dimensional shapes and does not include three-dimensional shapes or advanced mathematical concepts such as fractals.

5. Who created the periodic table of shapes?

The periodic table of shapes was first proposed by mathematician and educator Lawrence Spector in the 1980s. It has since been further developed and expanded upon by other mathematicians and educators, incorporating new shapes and concepts.

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