Hannah Fry's Magic Numbers Season 1 Episode 3 Weirder and Weirder
- October 24, 2018
- 58 min
Hannah Fry's Magic Numbers is a fascinating show that explores the power of patterns and numbers in our world. In season 1, episode 3 "Weirder and Weirder," Fry takes viewers on a journey to explore some of the most bizarre and perplexing patterns that exist in mathematics.
Fry starts her exploration by delving into the world of prime numbers. She explains how prime numbers have intrigued mathematicians for centuries due to their apparent randomness and unpredictability. Fry highlights some of the unusual patterns that exist within prime numbers, such as the fact that they tend to cluster in certain areas of the number line.
Next, Fry turns her attention to fractals, an area of mathematics that involves the repetition of patterns at different scales. She explains how fractals have the ability to explain phenomena that appear to be highly complex, such as the intricate patterns of snowflakes or the branching of tree limbs.
Fry then takes a detour into the world of strange numbers, such as the number zero, which seems like it should be simple but confounds mathematicians with its paradoxical properties. She also explores the Golden Ratio, a mathematical constant that appears in nature, art, and architecture, and has been used for centuries to create aesthetically pleasing designs.
The episode takes a more whimsical turn as Fry explores some of the stranger mathematical phenomena, such as the Fibonacci sequence, which appears in everything from the branching of trees to the spiral of a seashell. She also delves into the world of magic squares, which have fascinated mathematicians for centuries due to their ability to create patterns and symmetries that seem to defy explanation.
Throughout the episode, Fry uses vivid animations and real-world examples to illustrate the complex mathematical concepts she is exploring. Her enthusiasm for the subject is infectious, and viewers are sure to come away with a deeper appreciation of the beauty and power of numbers.
"Weirder and Weirder" is a fantastic episode of Hannah Fry's Magic Numbers that will leave viewers with a newfound appreciation for the complexity and beauty of mathematics. Whether you are a math lover or just someone looking to explore the mysteries of the world around us, this episode is sure to enthral and educate.