Solving math problems without calculus
Just like you, ancient engineers had algebra homework. Watch a step-by-step method they used to solve impossible problems still works 2,000 years later.
More from MIT Pulse
What are lipid nanoparticles?
You might be able to pronounce LIP-id NAN-oh-par-ti-kulz, but do you know what it means? Find out what these tiny fat droplets are and how they are used in medicine.
Using history to make iron
How did the Mossi people of Burkina Faso make iron over 1,000 years ago? By reconstructing their ancient bloomery, MIT researchers are learning what this process can teach us about material production.
The true size of cells
Would it surprise you to learn that cells can have very different sizes? Incredibly, even at the microscopic level, life shows remarkable diversity.
Defining units of measurement
Do you know how long 1 second is? What about 1 meter or 1 kilogram? Don't worry, the International System of Units has you covered with the precise definitions we'll explain.
How much is $1000 really worth?
Ethical philosophers ask us: what do we owe one another? By engaging in thought experiments that may seem outrageous at first we can clarify our own moral reasoning. Join us in considering what has morally significant value and how that can inform our behavior.