- Start Date:
June 24, 2014
- Event Start Time:
11:00 AM
- Event End Time:
12:00 PM
- Organizers:
Gene Fiorini
- Seminar Series:
REU Seminar
- Presenter(s):
Shabnam Beheshti - Rutgers University
- Event Location:
DIMACS Seminar room
- Abstract:
Minimal surfaces arise in a variety of mathematical contexts ranging from variational calculus and classical differential geometry to complex analysis. They also make natural appearances in seemingly disparate physical questions, including stability of soap film configurations and formation of black holes via dust discs. In this talk, we will explore the interplay between these two settings, starting with a classical isoperimetric problem posed by Archimedes and culminating in recent conjectures on Marginally Outer Trapped Surfaces (MOTS) in General Relativity. We will assume the audience is familiar with multivariable calculus/basic linear algebra and is willing to make a few leaps of faith. As a DIMACS/Math-REU talk, we will also point out, when possible, combinatorial and computational aspects of these problems along the way.
