Exemplars: women of mathematics

Mathematical induction is a structured method of proof used to confirm the truth of statements involving natural numbers. Consider the sum of the first n natural numbers:This formula describes a pattern that appears to hold true as more terms are added. To verify that it is valid for all natural numbers, mathematical induction proceeds in two essential steps. The first is the base case, where the formula is tested for the initial value, typically n = 1. Substituting into both sides confirms the...

Euler's formula is used in structural engineering to determine the buckling load of columns under various conditions. However, when dealing with systems that incorporate both rigid elements and elastic components, such as springs, the analysis requires a finer approach to determine the critical load. The problem described involves two rigid bars connected at a pivot point with a spring attached and a vertical load applied at one end.
The system comprises two vertical rigid bars, AB and BC, of...

Inequalities express mathematical relationships where two values are not equal and are compared using symbols such as <, >, ≤, or ≥. These expressions define a range of possible solutions rather than a single value. Interval notation provides a concise way to express these solution sets, especially when the variable spans a continuous range. An open interval, written as (a, b), excludes the endpoints, while a closed interval [a, b] includes them. There are also half-open intervals, such...

When we hold a stereotype about a person, we have expectations that he or she will fulfill that stereotype. A self-fulfilling prophecy is an expectation held by a person that alters his or her behavior in a way that tends to make it true. When we hold stereotypes about a person, we tend to treat the person according to our expectations. This treatment can influence the person to act according to our stereotypic expectations, thus confirming our stereotypic beliefs. Research by Rosenthal and...

Pappus and Guldinus's theorems are powerful mathematical principles that are used for finding the surface area and volume of composite shapes. For example, consider a cylindrical storage tank with a conical top. Finding the surface area or volume can be challenging for such complex shapes. These theorems are particularly useful in calculating the volume and surface area of such systems. Here, the cylindrical storage tank with a conical top can be broken down into two simple shapes: a cylinder...

Mathematical modeling transforms real-world scenarios into mathematical expressions, allowing for structured problem-solving and analysis. This process involves defining the situation, assigning variables to measurable quantities, selecting an appropriate model, and solving the resulting equation. Such models are invaluable in finance, providing precise methods to evaluate investments, loans, and repayment structures.A widely used example is the calculation of fixed monthly payments on a loan,...