What's up in

Mathematics

Latest Articles

New Proofs Probe the Limits of Mathematical Truth

February 3, 2025

By proving a broader version of Hilbert’s famous 10th problem, two groups of mathematicians have expanded the realm of mathematical unknowability.

The Jagged, Monstrous Function That Broke Calculus

January 23, 2025

In the late 19th century, Karl Weierstrass invented a fractal-like function that was decried as nothing less than a “deplorable evil.” In time, it would transform the foundations of mathematics.

Mathematicians Discover New Way for Spheres to ‘Kiss’

January 15, 2025

A new proof marks the first progress in decades on important cases of the so-called kissing problem. Getting there meant doing away with traditional approaches.

Rational or Not? This Basic Math Question Took Decades to Answer.

January 8, 2025

It’s surprisingly difficult to prove one of the most basic properties of a number: whether it can be written as a fraction. A broad new method can help settle this ancient question.

The Year in Math

Landmark results in geometry and number theory marked an exciting year for mathematics, at a time when advances in artificial intelligence are starting to transform the subject’s future.

Mathematicians Uncover a New Way to Count Prime Numbers

December 11, 2024

To make progress on one of number theory’s most elementary questions, two mathematicians turned to an unlikely source.

Teen Mathematicians Tie Knots Through a Mind-Blowing Fractal

November 26, 2024

Three high schoolers and their mentor revisited a century-old theorem to prove that all knots can be found in a fractal called the Menger sponge.

Q&A

Mathematical Thinking Isn’t What You Think It Is

November 18, 2024

The mathematician David Bessis claims that everyone is capable of, and can benefit greatly from, mathematical thinking.

New Elliptic Curve Breaks 18-Year-Old Record

November 11, 2024

Two mathematicians have renewed a debate about the fundamental nature of some of math’s most important equations.

Get highlights of the most important news delivered to your email inbox