Angelo Laplace
5 articles published in Tangente
Amazing MathN°229Apr 22, 2026A function that knows no bounds
With a surprisingly simple definition, the Ackermann–Péter function generates numbers of a staggering size. This mathematical construction, born out of research into computability, shows how quickly a recursive procedure can exceed all the usual bounds.
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Maths and HistoryN°229Apr 22, 2026Pushing the limits of imagination
When it comes to representing extremely large numbers, the standard operations, including exponentiation, are no longer enough. With considerable imagination, Donald Knuth and John Conway devised notations to overcome this limitation.
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Math for everyoneN°225Aug 19, 2025Quadrilaterals that don't come up short on area!
While the formula for the area of an arbitrary triangle has been known for a long time, that of an arbitrary quadrilateral took longer to emerge. Yet the two formulas share a kinship — visual, if nothing else — that is quite fascinating.
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Math for everyoneN°224Jun 12, 2025Logistic functions, from demographics to marketing
Driven by the desire for reliable demographic models, logistic functions emerged around 1840. They provide the best model for growth limited by external factors, extending Malthus's approach. Today they have unexpected applications, whether in marketing or household equipment.
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History and CultureN°219Aug 22, 2024Markov recommends Avenue Henri-Martin
The well-known board game Monopoly is a fine example of a stochastic process—a situation whose evolution is governed by the laws of probability. So, to find out whether you should buy Gare Saint-Lazare or Rue de Vaugirard, follow the guide…
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