Department of Mathematics
University of Oklahoma

Math Circle Schedule

Archive of past schedules

Fall 2024

	Sept 17, 2024 Time: 5:30pm-7:00pm Location: University of Oklahoma, Physical Sciences Center, Room 1105 601 Elm Ave, Norman, OK 73019. Speaker: Travis Mandel Title: Compass and Straightedge Constructions Abstract: We can preform a lot of nice geometric constructions using a compass and straightedge. We can bisect angles, draw perpendicular or parallel lines, and construct squares and equilateral triangles. But can we trisect an angle? Can we construct a regular 17-gon? A regular 18-gon? Is it really impossible to "square the circle?" In this activity, we'll learn about what is and is not constructible, and why! Along the way, we'll get a gentle introduction to some concepts from abstract algebra. Worksheet: (docx, pdf)
$Picture of Shravan Saoji$	Oct 1, 2024 Time: 5:30pm-7:00pm Location: University of Oklahoma, Physical Sciences Center, Room 1105 601 Elm Ave, Norman, OK 73019. Speaker: Shravan Saoji Title: Let's play with graphs! Abstract: Graph theory is a useful tool to solve many geometric problems in mathematics. A graph consists of vertices and edges (connecting the vertices). In this talk, we will look at two important problems called the seven bridges problem (very old) and the 4 color theorem (recent). We will also do fun exercises coloring the graphs at the end. Pictures: $10-1-24$
$Picture of Maya Verma$	Oct 15, 2024 Time: 5:30pm-7:00pm Location: University of Oklahoma, Physical Sciences Center, Room 1105 601 Elm Ave, Norman, OK 73019. Speaker: Maya Verma Title: Non-Euclidean Geometry Abstract: We will explore geometries that are not flat. We will begin by understanding Euclid's postulates and how changing one of them leads to different types of geometry. We will discuss spherical and hyperbolic geometry, examining how triangles and lines behave differently in these curved spaces. If time permits, we will also explore how regular polygons can tile hyperbolic plane. Pictures: $10-15-24 pic 1$ $10-15-24 pic 2$ $10-15-24 pic 3$
$Picture of Reza Rajaei$	Nov 19, 2024 Time: 5:30pm-7:00pm Location: University of Oklahoma, Physical Sciences Center, Room 1105 601 Elm Ave, Norman, OK 73019. Speaker: Reza Rajaei Title: Chess and Mathematics Abstract: Chess, a strategic board game, intrinsically generates intriguing problems, some of which are considered as part of elementary combinatorial mathematics. Surprisingly, these problems are mostly accessible to all, yet some remain challenging even for mathematicians to solve. In this talk, we will examine entertaining chess problems whose solutions employ deep but simple thinking approaches. Specifically, we will show how the knight connects combinatorics and the chessboard!