This course explores various mathematical concepts and paradoxes that seem impossible at first glance. By delving into topics such as perpetual motion machines, infinite numbers, and the mathematics behind art and physics, learners will gain a deeper understanding of complex mathematical ideas. The course covers skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and mathematical reasoning. The teaching method involves a series of TED-Ed talks by different speakers, each focusing on a specific mathematical concept or paradox. This course is intended for individuals interested in mathematics, physics, art, and philosophy, looking to expand their knowledge and challenge their perception of the impossible.
Overview
Syllabus
Why don't perpetual motion machines ever work? - Netta Schramm.
Newton’s three-body problem explained - Fabio Pacucci.
The Infinite Hotel Paradox - Jeff Dekofsky.
Exponential Growth: How Folding Paper Can Get You to the Moon.
A brief history of banned numbers - Alessandra King.
The mathematics of sidewalk illusions - Fumiko Futamura.
What is Zeno's Dichotomy Paradox? - Colm Kelleher.
The unexpected math behind Van Gogh's "Starry Night" - Natalya St. Clair.
How big is infinity? - Dennis Wildfogel.
Exploring other dimensions - Alex Rosenthal and George Zaidan.
Why do airlines sell too many tickets? - Nina Klietsch.
Football physics: The "impossible" free kick - Erez Garty.
The case of the missing fractals - Alex Rosenthal and George Zaidan.
The paradox at the heart of mathematics: Gödel's Incompleteness Theorem - Marcus du Sautoy.
Taught by
TED-Ed
