Maths in a minute

Want facts and want them fast? Our Maths in a minute series explores key mathematical concepts in just a few words. From symmetry to Euclid's axioms, and from binary numbers to the prosecutor's fallacy, learn some maths without too much effort.

Maths in a minute: The brazil nut effect

Why your muesli shakes down in unexpected ways.
Maths in a minute: Compound interest and e

Compound interest is the curse of debt and the blessing of saving. Find out how it works and what it has to do with one of the most important numbers in mathematics.
Maths in a minute: Variance

If you're bored with the average, then move on to the variance!
Maths in a minute: The two envelopes problem

What's wrong with this probability argument?
Maths in a minute: Euler's identity

Here's a quick introduction to the beauty queen amongst mathematical formulas.
Maths in a minute: How does laser interferometry work?
LIGO

How does LIGO detect gravitational waves? Here is a quick introduction.
Maths in a minute: Gravitational waves

A quick introduction to one of the greatest discoveries of the century.
Maths in a minute: Black holes
black hole

A quick introduction to the monsters that lurk at the centre of each galaxy.
Maths in a minute: The binomial distribution

The probability distribution that measures success and failure.
Maths in a minute: Polar coordinates

Polar coordinates are great for circles and spirals!
Maths in a minute: Cellular automata

Mindless games can produce surprising results.
Maths in a minute: Some basic linear programming

How to solve a tricky problem using a picture.