Hannah Fry's Magic Numbers Season 1 Episode 2 Expanded Horizons

In the second episode of Hannah Fry's Magic Numbers, titled "Expanded Horizons," mathematician and presenter Dr. Hannah Fry dives into the world of geometry and spatial reasoning.

She begins by discussing how mathematicians and scientists have been fascinated by the idea of higher dimensions for centuries, and how this concept has inspired both art and philosophy. To help illustrate this idea and bring it to life, Dr. Fry meets with artist and filmmaker Nick Risinger, who has created stunning images of the night sky using advanced telescopes and photography techniques.

Next, Dr. Fry looks at how higher dimensions are used in modern technology, such as in computer graphics and gaming. She explains how understanding the principles of geometry and spatial reasoning are crucial to building realistic and immersive virtual worlds.

Dr. Fry then speaks with computer scientist and mathematician Dr. Carlo H. Séquin, who shares his work on creating mathematical models of complex shapes. He explains how computer algorithms and modeling tools can help us understand and recreate objects with intricate and irregular shapes, such as proteins and viruses.

Moving on, Dr. Fry explores the concept of manifolds, or curved spaces that can exist in higher dimensions. She visits a laboratory where researchers are using advanced imaging techniques to study the structure of natural and synthetic materials at the nanoscale level. Dr. Fry shows how understanding the geometry of these materials can help researchers develop new treatments for diseases or create more efficient and sustainable technologies.

Finally, Dr. Fry looks at how higher dimensions are used in string theory, a theoretical framework that attempts to unify the laws of physics at both the quantum and cosmic level. She speaks with physicist Dr. Mihailo Backovic, who shares his research on simulating the early universe using computers, and explains how this work can help us understand the origins of the cosmos.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Fry uses a variety of visual aids and animations to help viewers understand the sometimes abstract and elusive concepts she discusses. She also highlights the practical applications of mathematics and geometry in fields ranging from art and design to medicine and technology.