Calendar of Events

September 13, 2018

Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium

Title:	Casino Carnival Games: Past, Present, and Future
Speaker:	Mark Bollman Professor of Mathematics Mathematics and Computer Science Albion College Albion, MI
Abstract:	Beyond the "big four" casino table games of baccarat, blackjack, craps, and roulette, over 1000 different games have been designed, proposed for casino use, and approved by the state of Nevada. In this presentation, we shall look at the math behind some of the games that have fallen by the wayside and at the mathematical issues that arise in designing a new game of chance. An opportunity to investigate the mathematics behind a new game proposal will be announced.
Location:	Palenske 227
Time:	3:30 PM

September 20, 2018

Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium

Title:	Planning for Graduate Study in Mathematics and Computer Science
Speaker:	David A. Reimann Professor Mathematics and Computer Science Albion College Albion, Michigan
Abstract:	A degree in mathematics or computer science is excellent preparation for graduate school in areas such as mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering, finance, and law. Come learn about graduate school and options you will have to further your education after graduation.
Location:	Palenske 227
Time:	3:30

September 27, 2018

Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium

Title:	Reducibility and Balanced Intransitive Dice
Speaker:	Michael Ivanitskiy1 and Michael A. Jones2 1University of Michigan; 2Mathematical Reviews Ann Arbor, MI
Abstract:	We will review some results about balanced intransitive $n$-sided dice and what it means for a set of dice to be reducible based on a concatenation operation. Using data from the Online Encyclopedia of Integer Sequences, the lexicographical ordering of dice, and permutations, we are able to construct new integer sequences representing the number of $n$-sided reducible and irreducible dice. We define a notion of margin and explain how margins are effected by concatenation. We introduce a new splicing operation that generalizes concatenation and give conditions for when the resulting dice are balanced and irreducible. Finally, we construct new integer sequences for the number of fair, balanced dice and the largest margins for $n$-sided, balanced intransitive dice. Bonus: You will either get to make or will be given a set of balanced, intransitive dice.
Location:	Palenske 227
Time:	3:30 PM

November 15, 2018

Mathematics and Computer Science Colloquium

Title:	The Geometry of Polynomials
Speaker:	Matt Boelkins Professor of Mathematics, Grand Valley State University Mathematics Grand Valley State University Allendale, MI
Abstract:	In the geometry of polynomials, we seek to understand relationships among certain sets connected to polynomial functions. For example, Marden's Theorem reveals stunning connections between the critical numbers of a cubic polynomial with complex zeros and the inscribed in-ellipse of the triangle whose vertices are the polynomial's zeros. In this talk, we'll discuss several important historical results from the geometry of polynomials and survey developments in the past 25 years that are centered on polynomial root-dragging, the study of how continuously changing one or more roots of a polynomial function affects various properties of the function. We will encounter some surprising structural results about polynomial functions that deserve to be more well-known and also see beautiful interplay between calculus and Euclidean geometry.
Location:	Palenske 227
Time:	3:30 PM

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