Day 6, MAT115

• Announcements:
  • Your second homework assignment is returned.
    • Babylonian numbers:
      1. 57 = (57)
      2. 222 = (3 42)
      3. 817 = (13 37)
      4. 9432 = (2 37 12)
      5. 14449 = (4 0 49)
    • When you write your Babylonian numbers, don't forget
      • to use boxes for positions, so you don't forget spaces
      • to block your martinis and boomerangs
      • Never have more than 9 martinis in a slot
      • Never have more than 5 boomerangs in a slot

    • The table is a table of squares -- or square roots.

    • We have a competition for the best short story! Pick your favorite and we'll vote next time. There are three. Whoops, there was a fourth!

  • You have an assignment due today (Mayan numbers), and another due next time ("Fraudini" numbers).

  • I've also assigned something for next Thursday, so I hope that you're keeping up....
  Question of the Day: What can we make of Yanghui's triangle??

• Last time we reviewed Mayan mathematical representation, and we learned about the Great Fraudini and his amazing ability to read minds. Today we'll finish up with Fraudini, and then check out an ancient Chinese document that represents one of the most beautiful mathematical objects that I know!

• Last time I invited my close friend, the Great Fraudini!
  • How does the game work?
  • Can you win at the game? You should be able to do it every time!
  • Here's the handout for the cards, if you want to print off another copy.
  • I'd like you to play with a partner, taking turns playing the roles of contestant and Fraudini. Make sure you can do it!

• A Card Trick! Hint: this one relies on powers of two. How does it work?

• Today's new thing, the best new thing in the world, is an old thing. It's called "Yanghui's triangle":
  • Mathematicians look for patterns. What do you see?
  • What is this? What is its purpose?
  • One of your homework problems will be to translate this triangle, so you need to learn its secrets!

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