Friday, February 15th at 4:00pm in Kerchof Hall 317 (pizza arrives at 3:45)
Speaker: Prof. Jeffrey Holt (UVa Department of Statistics)
Title: Some answers and questions about Euler's φ-function

Abstract: For each positive integer n, let φ(n) denote the number of positive integers m such that n and m have no common divisors other than 1. The φ-function, studied by Euler, has many interesting properties. In this talk, we'll consider a particular question concerning this function, and conduct our own research project by analyzing numerical evidence to work our way systematically to an answer. Homework will then be assigned, consisting of related questions that are as yet unresolved.

This talk has minimal prerequisites, requiring only a basic understanding of prime numbers and factorizations. No prior knowledge of the φ-function or Euler will be assumed.