BETA
Chapter 1
The basic anatomy of a shoelace knot
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Answer
Chapter 2
The topology of mathematical knots
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Chapter 3
The lacing grid optimization
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Chapter 4
The physics of the walking impact
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YOUR GOAL
Master of The math of shoelaces
Ch 2 · The topology of mathematical knots
dash Weave the colorful laces to discover the surprising math that keeps your shoes tied.
dash Mathematical Knot Topology
Fuse those shoelace ends! (Glue 'em tight!) / That's a true math knot! (You got it right!)
Fun Fact
Knotted molecules: Chemists have successfully synthesized molecular knots, creating the tightest knot ever tied in 2017 using just 192 atoms.
Glossary
knot theory (noun)
The mathematical study of closed, three-dimensional loops and how they deform without being cut or self-intersecting. In 1876, Peter Guthrie Tait tabulated these mathematical loops, distinguishing secure reef knots from weak granny knots.
The mathematical study of closed, three-dimensional loops and how they deform without being cut or self-intersecting. In 1876, Peter Guthrie Tait tabulated these mathematical loops, distinguishing secure reef knots from weak granny knots.
Quiz
How many basic Reidemeister moves are used to change a knot diagram without changing the knot itself?