Mathematics

Mathematicians have had a hard time finding commonalities in large groups of random shapes — until recently.

The physicist-mathematician Miranda Cheng is working to harness a mysterious connection between string theory, algebra and number theory.

Researchers have uncovered deep connections among different types of random objects, illuminating hidden geometric structures.

Insights from the mathematical genius Srinivasa Ramanujan give us a number of ways to explore the infinite.

Scientists are exploring a mysterious pattern, found in birds’ eyes, boxes of marbles and other surprising places, that is neither regular nor random.

Hilbert’s Hotel, an incredibly thin triangle and an elliptical pool table help us test the concept of infinity in the physical world.

Peter Scholze is a favorite to win one of the highest honors in mathematics for his contributions in number theory and geometry.

At 28, Peter Scholze is uncovering deep connections between number theory and geometry.

Three puzzles test whether the concept of infinity has purchase in the physical world.