Writing equations on cornflakes packets?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the unconventional practice of using cornflakes packets and other materials as surfaces for writing mathematical equations. Participants share their experiences and humorous takes on this habit, exploring the practicality and creativity involved in using everyday items for mathematical expression.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes the process of flattening cornflakes packets to create a writing surface for equations, highlighting the cost-effectiveness and practicality of this method.
  • Another participant humorously points out that the initial cost of the cornflakes should be considered, questioning the claim of it being free.
  • Several participants reference a "Theory of Everything," with one noting that it was too large to fit into the margins of the packet.
  • A playful suggestion is made to keep working on the theory until it can be written on a cornflake.
  • The term "quantum cornflake" is introduced, adding a humorous twist to the discussion.
  • Some participants engage in light-hearted banter about the nature of proofs and the limitations of writing space, referencing Fermat's Last Theorem in a parody context.
  • Others share their own experiences of writing equations on various surfaces, such as paper place mats and napkins, emphasizing the creativity involved in finding writing surfaces in different settings.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally share a light-hearted agreement on the practice of using unconventional surfaces for writing equations, though there is playful contention regarding the feasibility and practicality of writing extensive theories in limited spaces. The discussion remains largely humorous and exploratory without a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying degrees of creativity and humor in their approaches to writing equations, but there are no formal mathematical claims or theories presented that require resolution.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may interest individuals who enjoy mathematics, creative problem-solving, or unconventional uses of everyday items for academic purposes.

tiny-tim
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Does anyone else write equations on cornflakes packets?

When I've eaten all the cornflakes, I separate the seams of the packet by running a finger down them, and flatten out the cardboard into the huge rectangle it started as.

Then the rough blank side is a nice solid surface for writing equations on, and it didn't cost me anything! :smile:

And it has several very wide margins for afterthoughts!

(And when I throw it away, it takes up much less room in the trash than if I hadn't straightened it out.)

Or … they can be given to small children … to keep them quiet … :smile:
 
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tiny-tim said:
Then the rough blank side is a nice solid surface for writing equations on, and it didn't cost me anything! :smile:

It costs you a packet of cornflakes at least.
 
Yes, I had a magnificent Theory of Everything, alas, it was too large to fit into the margin.
 
Then don't die too soon.
 
dst said:
Yes, I had a magnificent Theory of Everything, alas, it was too large to fit into the margin.

Keep working on it until you have something that can be written on a cornflake. :smile:
 
The quantum cornflake.
 
dst what's your theory on everything ?
 
Blackout-Bill said:
dst what's your theory on everything ?

He doesn't really have a theory; it's a parody of Fermat's Last Theorem ("I have a proof but this margin is too small to contain it")
 
:rolleyes: I checked out dst's proof …
:biggrin: it's both corny and flaky! :biggrin:​
 
  • #10
tiny-tim said:
:rolleyes: I checked out dst's proof …
:biggrin: it's both corny and flaky! :biggrin:​

Hmm.. wheres that "groan" smilie again :rolleyes:
 
  • #11
groan indeed
I like to write some big impressive looking equation on the paper place mats at bars and make sure an equal sign ends up getting placed just at the edge :)
 
  • #12
Alfi said:
I like to write some big impressive looking equation on the paper place mats at bars and make sure an equal sign ends up getting placed just at the edge :)

I think they're called Fer-mats! :biggrin:
 
  • #13
If I'm out at a reastaurant, I'll scribble on a paper napkin or in some restaurants that use paper to cover the table, I'll scribble on the paper and then at the end of dinner, I'll tear off the section of paper on which I write. They through that away anyway.

Of course, if I don't have paper I'll write notes in my palm or on my forearm. :rolleyes: :biggrin:
 

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