We present an algorithm for a matrix-based Enigma-type encoder based on a variation of the Hill Cipher as an application of 2 × 2 matrices. In particular, students will use vector addition and 2 × 2 matrix multiplication by column vectors to simulate a matrix version of the German Enigma Encoding Machine as a basic example of cryptography. The…

A branch of mathematics commonly used in cryptography is Galois Fields GF(p[superscript n]). Two basic operations performed in GF(p[superscript n]) are the addition and the multiplication. While the addition is generally easy to compute, the multiplication requires a special treatment. A well-known method to compute the multiplication is based on…

Derivation of the law of radioactive decay is considered without prior knowledge of calculus or the exponential series. Calculus notation and exponential functions are used because ultimately they cannot be avoided, but they are introduced in a simple way and explained as needed. (Contains 10 figures, 1 box, and 1 table.)

Multiplication facts are difficult to teach. Therefore many researchers have put a great deal of effort into finding multiplication strategies. Sherin and Fuson (2005) provided a good survey paper on the multiplication strategies research area. Kolpas (2002), Rendtorff (1908), Dabell (2001), Musser (1966) and Markarian (2009) proposed the finger…

We give an irredundant axiomatization of the complete ordered field of real numbers. In particular, we show that all the field axioms for multiplication with the exception of the distributive property may be deduced as "theorems" in our system. We also provide a complete proof that the axioms we have chosen are independent.

The objective of this introduction to Colombeau algebras of generalized functions (in which distributions can be freely multiplied) is to explain in elementary terms the essential concepts necessary for their application to basic nonlinear problems in classical physics. Examples are given in hydrodynamics and electrodynamics. The problem of the…

In this note, using the method of undetermined coefficients, we obtain the power series for exp ( f ( x )) and ln ( f ( x )) by means of a simple recursion. As applications, we show how those power series can be used to reproduce and improve some well-known results in analysis. These results may be used as enrichment material in an advanced…

Mathematics majors' study of abstract algebra should provide these students with opportunities to connect what they are learning to their prior experiences with algebra in high school. This paper illustrates how such connections can be used to motivate the notion of binary operation and the axioms for a group.