The College of Letters and Science Division of Math and Physical Sciences hosted a new installment of its Math on Tap lecture series on Friday, October 11, showcasing Mathematics Assistant Professor Hannah Larson. Larson, a recipient of the prestigious 2024 Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prize, led guests in an engaging discussion of algebraic geometry.
The Math on Tap series brings together math enthusiasts of all ages to learn, mingle, and connect. Math and Physical Sciences Dean Steven Kahn introduced the event, saying these series provided a unique opportunity to “share math and the research of our faculty with a broader audience.”
In this salon environment, faculty, alumni, and students are encouraged to challenge each other and ask questions. Larson opened the October 11th event by sharing a famous problem in intersection theory: The Circles of Apollonius, which dates back to 240 BCE. Before her lecture, she circulated the room, inviting guests to answer, “How many circles are tangent to 3 fixed circles?” At the top of her talk, she polled the room for their responses, ultimately revealing the answer to be “eight.”
Larson’s talk, which proceeded much like a mini-math lesson, featured detailed, step-by-step breakdowns of mathematical concepts related to intersection theory and included impressive graphic visualizations of complex algebraic geometry. Following the lecture, guests were invited to continue the conversation over refreshments.
Math on Tap is in its third year and is planned to return for its next installment during the spring semester. The Division of Math and Physical Science also co-hosts the popular Basic Science Lights the Way virtual series on foundational research and science.
