algorithm

The word "algorithm" has probably got more usage over the last few years than it has in its entire history. But what exactly is an algorithm?

Next month sees the 60th birthday of a famous algorithm called Quicksort. We explore its origin, its workings, and some other work of its inventor Tony Hoare.

Quicksort is a famous algorithm which celebrates its 60th birthday this year. We explore its clever workings.

Next month sees the 60th birthday of a famous algorithm called Quicksort. Its inventor Tony Hoare told us that it all started with bubbles.

In this podcast we explore how ants have helped humans to solve some very difficult problems.

Find out how ants have inspired a class of cutting-edge algorithms designed to solve complex real-world problems.

Chinedu tells us how fixed points can help improve algorithms designed to solve complex real-world problems.

Find out how these humble animals have inspired computer algorithms to solve complex real-world problems.

Find out how a little bit of maths can enable a machine to learn from experience.

What is machine learning, what can it do, and is it ethical?

The simple act of packing your luggage can open a complex can of worms.

The human genome is represented by a sequence of 3 billion As, Cs, Gs, and Ts. With such large numbers, sequencing the entire genome of a complex organism isn't just a challenge in biochemistry. It's a logistical nightmare, which can only be solved with clever algorithms.

  • Want facts and want them fast? Our Maths in a minute series explores key mathematical concepts in just a few words.

  • As COP28, the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference, kicks off we look at how maths can help understand the climate crisis.

  • How do you create dramatic film out of mathematics? We find out with writer and director Timothy Lanzone.

  • Mathematics plays a central role in understanding how infectious diseases spread. This collection of articles looks at some basic concepts in epidemiology to help you understand this fascinating and important field, and set you up for further study.

  • Find out why the formula we use to work out conditional probabilities is true!

  • We talk about a play that explores the fascinating mathematical collaboration between the mathematicians GH Hardy and Srinivasa Ramanujan.