Symmetry and Sync: The Magic Behind Everyday Technology

(Event in English)

Today we will learn about symmetry and communication in the digital matrix. Silviana Amethyst from The Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell biology and genetics will tell us about shapes and symmetry from a mathematical point of view, as our world is full of geometries that we use to perceive our environments. Everything around us is built from simple parts coming together—just like how points, lines, and shapes form complex objects. In math and science, this idea of building from basics helps solve tricky problems and understand patterns in the world. One important idea is symmetry, which means things look the same from different angles or when moved in certain ways. Symmetry helps us make sense of complicated systems by using just a few building blocks.

Shapes and symmetries we can see, but what about waves? The same waves that are so very important in our now digital world. Our second speaker for the day is Mattis Hasler from the Barkhausen institute who will share with us the mysteries of electronics that make sure our digital communications are sent and interpreted correctly. Our modern digital world relies on tiny devices talking to each other—whether through wires, wireless signals, or light beams. For these devices to understand each other, they need to be perfectly in sync, like dancers moving together in time. This synchronization is a big challenge, but it's what makes all our communication devices work smoothly and quickly. Together, these ideas show how simple patterns and careful timing help connect both the world of math and the devices we use every day.