computer simulation
Have you ever been in an aeroplane on a smooth flight when suddenly the plane bumps up and down for a short time as it goes through turbulent air? The study of turbulence is used to understand a range of phenomena from the simple squirting of a jet of water to the activity of the sun.
Find out how modern telephone networks use mathematics to make it possible for a person to dial a friend in another country just as easily as if they were in the same street, or to read web pages that are on a computer in another continent.
Read about what it is like to work at the Meteorological Office in this interview with Helen Hewson. There's also a contact point for careers information.
Plus went to see members of Norman Foster's group of architects to learn about the maths behind architecture.
If you've ever watched a flock of birds flying at dusk, or a school of fish reacting to a predator, you'll have been amazed by their perfectly choreographed moves. Yet, complex as this behaviour may seem, it's not all that hard to model it on a computer. Lewis Dartnell presents a hands-on guide for creating your own simulations — no previous experience necessary.
Computer generated movies and electronic games: Joan Lasenby tells us about the mathematics and engineering behind them.
Lewis Dartnell turns the universe into a matrix to model traffic, forest fires and sprawling cities.
Changing your facial appearance with maths
Jet engines, aircraft carriers and telecommunications networks — these are just some of the things that Nira Chamberlain has modelled. And while he's figuring out defence logistics, he's also pursuing a pure mathematical interest in games. Find out what mathematical modelling can do and why it can also make you slim and fluent in French.
