Archive

An idea derived from string theory suggests that dark matter is hiding in a (relatively) large extra dimension. The theory makes testable predictions that physicists are investigating now.

Terence Tao, who has been called the “Mozart of Mathematics,” wrote an essay in 2007 about the common ingredients in “good” mathematical research. In this episode, the Fields Medalist joins Steven Strogatz to revisit the topic.

A mutant seedling revealed how plant tissues scatter incoming light, allowing plants to sense its direction and move toward it.

Two mathematicians have shown that origami can, in principle, be used to perform any possible computation.

Integer linear programming can help find the answer to a variety of real-world problems. Now researchers have found a much faster way to do it.

For decades, a small group of mathematicians has patiently unraveled the mystery of what was once math’s most popular picture. Their story shows how technology transforms even the most abstract mathematical landscapes.

If Anna beats Benji in a game and Benji beats Carl, will Anna beat Carl?

The Joy of Why podcast returns for a third season, with two co-hosts, 24 brilliant guests and 24 all-new episodes.

Some neighborhoods in the Milky Way may be better suited for making habitable planets than others.