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Euclid’s puzzling parallel postulate - Jeff Dekofsky

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Euclid, known as the "Father of Geometry," developed several of modern geometry's most enduring theorems--but what can we make of his mysterious fifth postulate, the parallel postulate? Jeff Dekofsky shows us how mathematical minds have put the postulate to the test and led to larger questions of how we understand mathematical principles.


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About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Animator Andres Bernal, Daniela Bernal
  • Director David Bernal
  • Editor Gustavo Martinez
  • Producer Nestor B. Macias, Sonia Rodriguez
  • Educator Jeff Dekofsky
  • Narrator Jeff Dekofsky
Additional Resources for you to Explore
There are many topics in math and science related to Non-Euclidean Geometry. Wikipedia is actually a very good source for looking more deeply into this area.
The Artist M.C. Escher used Hyperbolic Geometry in many of his tessellations. He was also inspired by the Moorish artwork and tile work that resides at the Alhambra in Spain. Here are some links for you to learn more about this amazing artist and his work:
· https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-Gcz9FIB4w
· https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kcc56fRtrKU
· http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MC_Escher
Albert Einstein utilized the concepts of Non-Euclidean Geometry to establish his General Theory of Relativity. This theory describes how the fabric of Space-Time is bent by matter. You can check out these links to learn more about this theory and it's implications to modern science:
· https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoaOHvy5AcA
· https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAqSCuHA0j8
· https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfv2AiVfnWA
· http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_relativity

Customize this lesson

Create and share a new lesson based on this one.

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Animator Andres Bernal, Daniela Bernal
  • Director David Bernal
  • Editor Gustavo Martinez
  • Producer Nestor B. Macias, Sonia Rodriguez
  • Educator Jeff Dekofsky
  • Narrator Jeff Dekofsky

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