Category: Mathematics

  • The IQ150 Puzzle: A Challenging River Crossing Riddle

    This puzzle, known as the “IQ150 Puzzle,” is one I learned during middle school. It’s a fun yet challenging exercise that tests logical thinking and creativity. Despite its somewhat extreme setting, the puzzle is captivating and rewarding to solve. Puzzle Setup A family is trying to cross a large river. Here’s the structure of the…

  • Are Math Majors Good with “Numbers”?

    After entering the workforce, I’ve often encountered a common misconception about math majors. One of the most frequent remarks is: “You studied mathematics in university, so you must be good with numbers.” If you’re a math major graduate, chances are you’ve heard this at least once. I certainly have, several times throughout my career. However,…

  • Proof of (−1) × (−1) = 1

    In mathematics, the fact that multiplying two negative numbers results in a positive number, namely: \[ (-1)\times (-1) = 1 \] is a concept that many find counterintuitive. In this article, we will demonstrate how this equation is derived through a mechanical approach based on mathematical rules, and we will also explore its historical background.…

  • Lectures on Integral Geometry and Harmonic Analysis

    Overview Fulton B. Gonzalez’s lecture series, Lectures on Integral Geometry and Harmonic Analysis, was held from December 2009 to January 2010. Based on this intensive course, the lecture notes were published as COE Lecture Note Series 24 in 2010. Gonzalez, a student of the renowned mathematician Sigurdur Helgason, has made significant contributions to the fields…

  • GELFAND PAIRS AND BEYOND

    Gerrit Van Dijk, “GELFAND PAIRS AND BEYOND,” COE Lecture Note Series 11, 2008 Between April and May 2008, an intensive lecture series was conducted by Professor Gerrit Van Dijk. Based on the content of these lectures, the “COE Lecture Note Series 11,” titled GELFAND PAIRS AND BEYOND, was published. This volume provides a comprehensive exploration…