Abstract

Why does water splash? What can Pringles and Hula Hoops help you learn about maths? How do avalanches and earthquakes happen? Are there patterns in prime numbers?

Come and find out at the Maths Public Open Day! More than 70 staff and student volunteers are running demonstrations, displays and hands-on activities for all ages exploring the vast range of topics on which mathematicians in Cambridge work.

The Maths Public Open Day happens only once every two years and last took place in 2009: among other things it’s a very rare chance to explore inside the fluids dynamics laboratory hidden beneath the lawns of one of the most beautiful modern buildings in Cambridge! Hands-on activities in the lab will include Water Bombs, The Music of Turbulence, Alien Custard and Human Plumes. There are computer simulations, displays and demonstrations on cosmology, high energy physics, astrophysics and quantum information too.

Hands on activities from the Pure Mathematics department will include investigating what Pringles and Hula Hoops can help you learn about maths, and Prime Number Hopscotch.

And, for weary parents, the Maths Cafe is open, serving snacks and light refreshments.