Prof. Tadashi Tokieda

Title: Applying physics to mathematics

Abstract: Humans tend to be better at physics than at mathematics. When an apple falls from a tree, there are more people who can catch it—we know physically how the apple moves—than people who can compute its trajectory from a differential equation. Applying physical ideas to discover and establish mathematical results is therefore natural, even if it has seldom been tried in the history of science. (The exceptions include Archimedes, some old Russian sources, a recent book by Mark Levi, as well as my articles and lectures.) This TMC Distinguished Lecture presents a diversity of examples, and tries to make them easy for imaginative beginners and difficult for seasoned researchers.

Target Audience: The talk is suitable for students from Class XII onwards, and certainly all undergraduates in Physics and Mathematics.

For Young members of the Audience: The speaker has a rich variety of fascinating 5〜10 minute videos on YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLt5AfwLFPxWI9eDSJREzp1wvOJsjt23H_

that provide a rewarding viewing experience.