Understanding famous paradoxes in mathematics

Comprendre les paradoxes célèbres en mathématiques

IN BRIEF Zeno’s Paradox: Achilles and the tortoise illustrate the infinite. Russell’s Paradox: Highlights logical contradictions. The Liar Paradox: A statement that contradicts itself. The Barber Paradox: A classic example of paradoxical logic. The Missing Dollar Riddle: Raises questions about addition. Ellsberg’s Paradox: Reveals irregularities in probability choices. Hilbert’s Hotel: Exposes the properties of the … Read more

Complex analysis: introduction to imaginary numbers

Analyse complexe : introduction aux nombres imaginaires

IN BRIEF Complex analysis: study area of complex numbers. Definition of a complex number: z = a + bi with a and b real, i imaginary unit. Visualization of complex numbers in the plane with coordinates. Operations on complex numbers: addition, subtraction, multiplication, etc. Basic concepts related to imaginary numbers and their importance in applied … Read more

Introduction to differential and integral calculus: key concepts

Introduction au calcul différentiel et intégral : concepts clés

IN BRIEF Differential calculus: study of derivatives to measure the change in a function. Integral calculus: understanding the concept of integral to determine areas under curves. For each function, it is possible to calculate derivatives and integrals using basic techniques. Geometric concepts such as areas, perimeters, and volumes are essential. The history of differential and … Read more

The mathematics behind numerical simulations

Les mathématiques derrière les simulations numériques

IN BRIEF Numerical simulations: computation processes on computers to model physical realities. Mathematical modeling: construction of models to represent complex systems. Mathematical analysis: evaluation and interpretation of simulation results. Practical applications: use in various fields, including pandemics and engineering. Technological evolution: computing transforms and improves the approach to applied mathematics. Numerical models: implementation of discretization … Read more

The philosophical challenges related to infinite mathematics

Les défis philosophiques liés aux mathématiques infinies

IN BRIEF Philosophy and mathematics: a complex connection. Conceptions of infinity throughout history. The Euclidean axioms and their limitations. The debate on the nature of infinity in the real world. Aristotle and the concept of potential infinity. Impact of Descartes‘ reflections on infinity. The early attempts to understand infinity by Zeno. Applications of infinity in … Read more

The prime numbers and their importance in mathematics

Les nombres premiers et leur importance en mathématiques

IN BRIEF Prime number: a natural number divisible only by 1 and itself. Examples of prime numbers: 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13. Importance in arithmetic: every number can be uniquely decomposed into products of prime numbers. Cryptography: prime numbers ensure the security of online data. Historical developments, notably by Eratosthenes and his sieve. Essential … Read more

Mathematics as a tool for linking disciplines

Les mathématiques comme outil de liaison entre disciplines

IN BRIEF Interdisciplinarity : Facilitates links between disciplines. Statistical tools : Used in sociology and psychology. Education : Learning mathematics related to other subjects. Mathematical models : Essential element for scientific understanding. Geometry, numbers, and other sub-disciplines : Fundamental links. Scientific popularization : Making mathematical concepts accessible. Innovation : Encouraged by the integration of mathematics … Read more

The calculation of probabilities in games of chance

Le calcul des probabilités dans les jeux de hasard

IN BRIEF Probabilities and games of chance: Introduction to the basic concepts. Calculation of probabilities: Strategies to increase winning chances. The role of combinatorial calculation in evaluating options. Examples of modeling related to well-known games. Importance of laws of chance: Failures and successes in games. Specific strategies for games like poker and lottery. History of … Read more

Optimization: finding optimal solutions through mathematics

Optimisation : trouver des solutions optimales grâce aux mathématiques

IN BRIEF Mathematical optimization: finding the best solution among several alternatives. Proven techniques such as the walking line to reduce the number of vertex evaluations. Importance of modeling to transform complex problems into linear analyses. Metaheuristic algorithms simplify solving optimization problems. Practical application in various fields, including supply chain and optimization under constraints. Identification of … Read more