Description
This programme looks at how all surfaces can be constructed geometrically from a few basic surfaces.
Metadata describing this Open University video programme
Module code and title: M335, Studies in pure mathematics
Item code: M335; 04
Recording date: 22-04-1982
Published: 1982
Rights Statement:
Restrictions on use:
Duration: 00:23:10
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Producer: Jack Koumi
Contributors: Graham Flegg; John Peters
Publisher: BBC Open University
Keyword(s): Connected sum; Three basic surfaces
Footage description: When surfaces are classified algebraically, in terms of "edge equations" it is clear that there are infinite numbers of surfaces. But what do they all look like geometrically? The programme shows that all of them (except the sphere) can be constructed geometrically from just three basic surfaces: the torus, the protective plane and the disc. The method of construction, the "connected sum", is explored with a variety of models and animations - with surprising results. Even more intriguing, are the shapes obtained when the programme goes on to show students, for the first time in the course, what every possible surface looks like. To accomplish this, several distortions are shown which would be almost impossible to visualise without animation.
Master spool number: HOU4007
Production number: FOUM133F
Videofinder number: 976
Available to public: no