To Paint the Lily, Mathematically by L Mahadevan

Explore the intersection of biology, mathematics, and physics in this captivating lecture by L Mahadevan, de Valpine Professor of Applied Mathematics at Harvard University. Delve into the fascinating world of living forms, from the diversity of garden plants to the complex patterns of shape and flow in inanimate matter. Discover how everyday observations can lead to profound mathematical insights, as Mahadevan guides you through topics such as tendrils, perversion, curvature control, and flower ripples. Gain a deeper understanding of the connections between biology and engineering, and learn about the role of feedback control in natural systems. This thought-provoking talk challenges you to see the mundane world as a source of mystery and magic, ultimately revealing the sublime nature of mathematics in everyday phenomena.

Introduction
Speaker Introduction
Painting the lily mathematically
Tendrils
Perversion
Controlling curvature
Flower ripple
Biology and engineering
Biology
Feedback control