Math

Some researchers dream of solving all mysteries with a common method—but a mathematical paradox may keep such solutions out of reach

Math’s “best-choice problem” could help humans become better decision-makers at everything from choosing the best job candidate to finding a romantic partner

Play this crossword inspired by the October 2024 issue of Scientific American

Can you find the number that doesn't belong?

Mathematician Gauss left behind a trophy case of mathematical achievements to highlight on his tombstone, but above all he wanted a regular heptadecagon etched on it

Training in symbolic logic is critical in many careers, for responsible citizenship and better lives. It is also an underexploited antidote to today’s bizarre conspiracy thinking

Two physicists have come across infinitely many novel equations for pi while trying to develop a unifying theory of the fundamental forces

Mathematicians reveal that tiling your multidimensional bathroom will lead to never-ending disorder

Can you find the pattern behind this progression of digits?

Why a mathematician thought this infinite series explained how God created the universe

A barber shaves all men who don’t shave themselves. Does he shave himself? Mathematics offers explanations for this and other curious contradictions

A new mathematical technique shows how to build small objects in any dimension that roll like a wheel, expanding our understanding of higher dimensional space