Join us for the first Math Club meeting of the semester! Of course, there will be free pizza!
Join us for an introduction to different ways of measuring distance with Jaclyn Lang. And, of course, there will be free pizza!
Abstract: Everyone knows what distance is; even little children ask about it on interminable car rides! In this talk we will approach the familiar notion of distance with a mathematician’s lens. After extracting and axiomatizing the key properties of a distance function, we will explore surprising and unfamiliar worlds that arise simply by changing the definition of distance. After a quick review of
Euclidean geometry, we will touch on spherical geometry, graph/taxicab metrics, hyperbolic geometry, and p-adic geometry. I will also explain how you can get involved with creating an Outreach Exhibit on this topic at the 2026 International Congress of Mathematicians in Philadelphia!
Join us to play games and talk math. And, of course, there will be free pizza!
Join us for a brainstorming session to create an outreach exhibit for the upcoming ICM. And, of course, there will be free pizza!
Abstract: This is the kick-off meeting for all students interested in helping build the “Are we there yet? An exploration of distance” exhibit for the ICM this summer. At this meeting Profs. Lang and Lufi will get everyone sorted into working groups based on the five examples of distance: Euclidean geometry, Spherical geometry, Hyperbolic geometry, Graph/Taxicab geometry, and p-adic geometry. You’ll meet your graduate student leaders, make a plan for future meetings, and start brainstorming about creating your exhibit. If you’ve already expressed interest in helping, check your email for pre-meeting instructions. If you’re just hearing about this, feel free to join anyway to get involved!