A recent series titled “Math, Revealed” concluded with an engaging exploration of mathematics as it relates to everyday objects and experiences. The four-part series delved into various intriguing topics, including unconventional interpretations of geometric shapes and the fascinating relationship between mathematics and art. One episode even examined the mathematical principles behind Leonardo da Vinci’s “Vitruvian Man,” while another presented unique insights into the concept of pi.
To encourage readers to reflect on what they learned, the series creators have developed a quiz that tests both the knowledge gained from the series and general mathematical understanding. Participants can expect fun and challenging questions that range from geometric shapes to historical mathematical figures.
Quiz Highlights and Questions
The quiz begins with a thought-provoking question about geometry. In this alternative mathematical reality, circles take on sharp, angular forms. What shape do these circles resemble? The options include a triangle, a diamond, a hexagon, a star, or an octagon.
Another intriguing question challenges the conventional understanding of pi. In this context, what is the value of pi? The choices provided are approximately 3.14, approximately 1.41, exactly 2, exactly 3, or surprisingly, exactly 4.
Fascination with the golden ratio has long captivated mathematicians. Participants are asked to identify its approximate value from options including 1.41, 1.50, 1.62, 1.75, and 2.00.
The quiz also prompts reflections on da Vinci’s “Vitruvian Man.” According to a study conducted in 2015, does the navel of this iconic figure divide the body according to the golden ratio? The responses range from “Yes, almost exactly” to “No, but the golden ratio is mentioned in Leonardo’s notes.”
Further questions explore mathematical concepts in everyday contexts, like the arrangement of soda cans. In a scenario where cans are placed on a flat surface, each can in the middle touches how many neighbors? The options are three, four, five, six, or eight.
Additionally, the quiz references a notable achievement in mathematics. A mathematician won the prestigious Fields Medal in 2022 for solving a complex problem regarding tightly packed spheres in eight dimensions. Participants must identify the mathematician from choices including Terence Tao, Maryna Viazovska, Thomas Hales, Maryam Mirzakhani, and Ingrid Daubechies.
Another question involves triangular numbers, asking why the number 10 is considered triangular. The options include its divisibility by 3, its representation in the Pythagorean theorem, or the ability to arrange ten dots in an equilateral triangle.
The quiz concludes with a playful, yet mathematically intriguing question about an unconventional wedding reception scenario. If a bride seats eight of her ex-boyfriends together at a table, how many handshakes occur if each ex-boyfriend shakes hands with every other? Participants can choose among options ranging from 28 to 56.
Lastly, a question about four bugs navigating a square measuring 1 foot by 1 foot asks how far each bug travels before they meet at the center, with various potential answers, including one foot, two feet, and 1.41 feet.
This quiz not only serves as a fun way to engage with the material from “Math, Revealed,” but also emphasizes the relevance of mathematics in various aspects of life. As the series creators, including Alan Burdick, Alice Fang, Marcelle Hopkins, and Matt McCann, prepare for future mathematical explorations, participants are encouraged to enjoy this quiz and reflect on the fascinating world of mathematics.
