Seminars & Colloquia Calendar

Download as iCal file

Graduate Student Combinatorics Seminar Sponsored by DIMACS

Kempe's Attempted Proof of the Four Color Theorem

Charles Kenney - Rutgers University

Location:  Graduate Student Lounge, 7th Floor, Hill Center
Date & time: Wednesday, 14 September 2022 at 12:15PM - 1:15PM

Abstract In 1878, Arthur Cayley asked the London Mathematical Society for a proof of the four colour theorem: that any map drawn on a simply connected surface can be coloured with 4 or fewer colours so that no two adjacent regions receive the same colour. A year later in 1879, Alfred Kempe published a famous solution (attempt) to the problem Cayley had publicized, only to have a mistake pointed-out by Percy Heawood in 1890. I will discuss Kempe's (attempted) proof and, time permitting, Heawood's refutation.

Special Note to All Travelers

Directions: map and driving directions. If you need information on public transportation, you may want to check the New Jersey Transit page.

Unfortunately, cancellations do occur from time to time. Feel free to call our department: 848-445-6969 before embarking on your journey. Thank you.