The mathematics of solitaire

People play 'ordinary solitaire' (Klondike) millions of times a day. Yet, we mathematicians can't figure out 'what is the chance of winning?' or 'how can I play well?' Indeed, even the chess and go playing programs 'Alpha zero' can't solve these problems (thank goodness that there are some things the computer can't do). I'll introduce an easier solitaire where we can figure things out. The math involved is some of the deepest of the past 50 years. It has applications to the way fire burns and the rings left by coffee cups. AND of course, it's beautiful in its own right. I'll try to explain all to a general audience 'in English'.

Event Details

• Date: Tuesday, 10th December 2024
• Time: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
• Location: Fisher Paykel Auditorium 260-115, Sir Owen G Glenn Building, 12 Grafton Road Auckland 1010

Host or Publisher Faculty of Science, University of Auckland