Explore the fascinating world of π in this Stanford lecture by renowned computer scientist Donald Knuth. Delve into the numerous appearances of π in "The Art of Computer Programming" and uncover its diverse interpretations across various contexts. Discover how Dr. I. J. Matrix humorously suggests that π's digits encode the entire human history. Examine both proper and improper interpretations of these digits, including numerology, repetition patterns, and world records. Learn about Knuth's personal methods for memorizing π and his creative explorations of its properties. Investigate π's role in boolean functions, balanced ternary representations, and various mathematical puzzles. Gain insights into Knuth's approach to pseudocode and explore intriguing topics like the Christmas Star, Sudoku, and other challenging mathematical games. This lecture offers a unique blend of mathematics, computer science, and creative thinking, showcasing Knuth's expertise and wit in his 25th Annual Christmas Lecture.
Overview
Syllabus
Intro
The Numerology of Dr Matrix
A curious repetition pattern
A million digits
Microfiche
World Record
Other digits of Pi
How Knuth remembers Pi
A Dream Embodying Pi
Pis Zeros
ZomPeer Chronicle
Narrow Cattle Path
Perfect Sonnet
Why Pi
Where to find Pi
The first Pi example
The second edition of Pi
and
Representation of boolean functions
Representation of balanced ternary
Puzzles
Japanese arrow puzzle
Published book
Pseudocode
Christmas Star
New York Times
Night and Bishop
Sudoku
Furoshiki
Cages
Ken Ken
Kaku Roll
Kokoro
How far can you go
Im out of luck
Its really fiendishly difficult
Taught by
Stanford Online
