Overview
Explore the fascinating journey of geometry from its classical origins to its pivotal role in modern physics in this Royal Institution lecture. Delve into the five axioms of Euclidean geometry and discover how post-Euclidean geometry revolutionized our understanding of spacetime. Follow the historical progression through the Renaissance and Enlightenment, learning how mathematicians like Gauss and Riemann challenged traditional axioms, ultimately paving the way for Einstein's theory of relativity. Gain insights into the connections between mathematics and physics, from ancient proofs to the principles of special relativity, as presented by Professor Yang-Hui He in this comprehensive exploration of geometry's impact on our understanding of the universe.
Syllabus
Introduction
The Elements
Axioms
Parallel Axiom
Play a game
Why 360 degrees
Proof
Tragedy
Arabic mathematics
The Oxford School
Post Renaissance
Second Proof
The Power of Algebra
What is Calculus
Principia Mathematica
Westminster Abbey
Principia
Euler
Newtonian World
Geometers
The Fifth Axion
The Prince of Mathematics
Microfire Day
Special Relativity
Taught by
The Royal Institution