Math That Will Amaze You

Mathematics Evening with Prof. Beutelspacher

On March 7, 2017, the first Math Night took place at Steinmühle and was unexpectedly well-attended. Professor Beutelspacher from the Mathematikum in Giessen presented mathematical experiments, and the math student council, together with many students, had organized a varied program of activities.

The evening also provided a fitting occasion to honor the successful participants from Steinmühle at the Hessian Math Olympiad.

In his one-hour lecture on mathematical experiments, Prof. Beutelspacher amazed the audience with simple experiments involving geometric figures and solids, astonished them with calculation tricks, and inspired them to think through hands-on activities with scissors and paper. His entertaining explanations of the development of various number systems also highlighted the importance of mathematics for human progress. The audience was captivated and fascinated by a side of mathematics that is sometimes neglected in school.

The supporting program featured a wealth of hands-on activities, most of which were developed in class or designed specifically for this evening. The WU Computer Science Department presented “LEGO Mindstorms” they had programmed themselves; the famous chessboard legend and the legend of Achilles and the tortoise were explained; and the goat problem was examined in even greater detail. Visitors could test their math skills in an extensive quiz, crack secret codes using a computer program, marvel at geometric solids and build them themselves, try their hand at various math puzzles, solve logic problems, or try out the calculation tricks already demonstrated on stage and learn new ones. On display boards, students presented work from their “regular” classes; for example, visitors could admire beautifully designed cubes, marvel at the mathematics of honeycombs, or examine impossible solids.

The Friends of the School Association also organized a raffle featuring numerous attractive prizes related to mathematics, which were drawn on stage at the end of the event. The WU Catering Service provided refreshments for the guests, so many visitors lingered in the Steinmühle Forum for a long time, enjoying lively conversations and a great atmosphere.