Packing dominoes and other shapes
Mon 10 October 2016
Department of Chemistry
A lecture by Professor Imre Leader of the Department of Pure Mathematics & Mathematical Statistics
The first in a series of lectures organised by the Cambridge Philosophical Society in the Michaelmas Term 2016
Abstract: Suppose we have a chessboard (of the usual 8-by-8 variety), and a supply of 32 dominoes (2-by-1 rectangles). It is a simple task to place the dominoes so that they cover the whole board. But now suppose instead that we have 31 dominoes, and our task is to cover the chessboard with two opposite corners removed. Can this be done?
This is an example of a `packing’ problem. Packings have given rise to some of the most beautiful and visual arguments in mathematics. In this talk we will consider some of the `classical’ theory and then move on to more recent results.
Note to attendees - no previous knowledge will be assumed.
Cost: free
Enquiries and booking
No need to book.
Open to all, entrance is free to all Cambridge Philosophical Society Lectures. For further information please contact the Executive Secretary or visit the Society's website
Enquiries: Beverley Larner Website Email: philosoc@hermes.cam.ac.uk Telephone: 01223 334743