MHB What is the Unexpected Discovery in Basic Math?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers around an article highlighting an unexpected discovery in basic math related to neutrinos and their interaction with electrons in atoms. Participants express fascination with the topic but note the article's lack of detail on the new formula. A blog by mathematician Terry Tao is recommended for a clearer explanation of the results. The conversation emphasizes the accessibility of complex mathematical concepts when presented by skilled mathematicians. Overall, the interaction showcases a blend of curiosity and appreciation for advancements in mathematical understanding.
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Fascinating. Now if only the article had mentioned what the new formula was!

The part about the neutrinos and electrons interacting in an atom is new to me though. Thanks for that reason as well!

-Dan
 
topsquark said:
Fascinating. Now if only the article had mentioned what the new formula was!

The part about the neutrinos and electrons interacting in an atom is new to me though. Thanks for that reason as well!

-Dan

Here is Tao's paper. Short and sweet! I, too, thought this was fascinating! There is room for a masterful mathematician like Tao to write a paper at quite an elementary level.
 
Seemingly by some mathematical coincidence, a hexagon of sides 2,2,7,7, 11, and 11 can be inscribed in a circle of radius 7. The other day I saw a math problem on line, which they said came from a Polish Olympiad, where you compute the length x of the 3rd side which is the same as the radius, so that the sides of length 2,x, and 11 are inscribed on the arc of a semi-circle. The law of cosines applied twice gives the answer for x of exactly 7, but the arithmetic is so complex that the...
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