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Möbius Strip Riddle Solved

BigLug writes with news that two experts in non-linear dynamics, Gert van der Heijden and Eugene Starostin of University College London, have developed an algebraic equation that describes the Möbius strip — something that, you may be surprised to learn, had never been done since the form's discovery in 1858. ABC.net.au has an accessible short summary: "What determines the strip's shape is its differing areas of 'energy density,' they say. 'Energy density' means the stored, elastic energy that is contained in the strip as a result of the folding. Places where the strip is most bent have the highest energy density; conversely, places that are flat and unstressed by a fold have the least energy density."

10 of 184 comments (clear)

  1. If only... by InvisblePinkUnicorn · · Score: 5, Funny

    Now if only they could build a little bridge out of matchsticks so those poor ants can get off that damn endless path.

  2. Re:Mobius strip by WwWonka · · Score: 5, Funny

    pessimism and sarcastic remarks will get you nowhere in the scientific community.

    Now leave me alone while I figure out how to get to the top of these stupid MC Escher stairs.

  3. Interesting by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    Interesting idea, but I'm having trouble seeing both sides of their argument...

  4. Re:Mobius strip by Vulva+R.+Thompson,+P · · Score: 2, Funny

    Relatively easy, just follow the guy with no face.

  5. Why did the Chicken Cross the Mobius Strip?.... by CaffeineJedi · · Score: 5, Funny

    To get to the other

  6. The scientific principle of Möbius strippers by jollyreaper · · Score: 5, Funny

    Möbius strippers never show you their backsides.

    --
    Kwisatz Haderach
    Sell the spice to CHOAM
    This Mahdi took Shaddam's Throne
  7. Mathematicians by benhocking · · Score: 2, Funny

    Well, them, and occasionally Star Trek writers.

    --
    Ben Hocking
    Need a professional organizer?
  8. Re:In other news, a team from.. by Sponge+Bath · · Score: 3, Funny

    Sweden just figured out the differential equations governing a noose.

    A Nøøse once bit my sister ... No realli!

  9. Re:I Can't find It. by Zencyde · · Score: 2, Funny

    Can't you just purchase one? I don't think I'm willing to go through all of that for a mobius strip. What's it good for? Representing the concept of infinite? Showing that an object can theoretically exist with only one side? Bleh, useless I say!

    --
    What day is it? Could you please tell me?
  10. Re:Mobius strip by Goaway · · Score: 3, Funny

    Slashdot: News for anti-intellectuals, stuff that confuses us.