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Maths in a minute: Maths and navigation
How the need to locate your location at sea led to some interesting mathematics.
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.
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Maths in a minute: The square root of 2 is irrational
Here's one of the most elegant proofs in all of maths. Rejoice in its simplicity!
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Maths in a minute: Maths and communication
A quick look at the role of mathematics in communication — from making and breaking codes to making sure messages arrive intact.
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Maths in a minute: False positives
Why a positive test result doesn't necessarily mean you have the disease.
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Maths in a minute: How many primes?
Here's the ancient proof that there are infinitely many prime numbers.
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Maths in a minute: The prosecutor's fallacy
Why a DNA match doesn't necessarily prove your guilt.
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Physics in a minute: Configuration space
How to describe the air in your room.
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Maths in a minute: Einstein's general theory of relativity
What would happen if the Sun suddenly exploded? Einstein wondered the same thing, and completely changed our understanding of the Universe.
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Maths in a minute: Symmetry
We all instinctively recognise symmetry when we see it, but describing it in words is harder than you might think.
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Maths in a minute: The second law of thermodynamics
Our messy desk is proof of the second law of thermodynamics...
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Maths in a minute: Expectation
Why the expected outcome of rolling a die is 3.5.
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Maths in a minute: Boolean algebra
Meet the algebra at the heart of your computer!