MA 461 FALL 2000 DISCUSSION TOPIC #3

TOPIC: RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MATH AND PHYSICS

LEADERS: ERIC TOWNSLEY AND CHAD FELDMANN

Readings:

1. Wigner, Eugene P . "The Unreasonable Effectiveness of Mathematics in the Natural Sciences." Symmetries and Reflections. Bloomington: Indiana University Press, 1967. 222-237.

2. http://www.mcs.surrey.ac.uk/Personal/R.Knott/Fibonacci/fib.html

Introduction:

The relationship between mathematics and physics is a topic that stretches the limits of the mind. Mathematical Principles are used to describe and prove physical theories. There is no definite answer as to why mathematics has so many links with physics. There are theories about this topic, but no definite answers.

Possible Discussion Directions and Threads:

1. Which came first, Math or Physics?

2. Why is the language of mathematics so effective in formulating physical theories?

3. Is there a connection between the mathematical and physical world?

Schedule: