From left to right: Lock Haven University math majors Samantha Hippler, Teanna Kobuck and Marc Van Dorick.

LHU math majors discuss knot theory, Waring's problem

2/25/13

What’s the math and theory behind tying knots? What is Waring’s problem all about? 

Three Lock Haven University mathematics majors knew just how to approach these math topics on Feb. 16 when they presented to a large audience at the 27^th annual Student Mathematics Conference at Moravian College in Bethlehem, Pa. 

Samantha Hippler and Teanna Kobuck, both senior mathematics majors, discussed knot theory and the minimal length-to-width ratio needed to make a two-dimensional trefoil knot.  

Marc Van Dorick, a junior mathematics major, talked about Waring’s problem, an issue involving the representation of nonnegative integers as sums of powers of nonnegative integers.

Hippler and Kobuck conducted their independent study project under the direction of Dr. Angela Pile, Lock Haven University Assistant Professor of Mathematics. Van Dorick conducted his independent study project under the direction of Dr. Jim Strayer, Lock Haven University Professor of Mathematics.

The Moravian College conference attracts students and faculty from public and private universities throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York and Maryland. Each year, Lock Haven sends between 10 to 20 mathematics majors to the conference.