Mathematics and Statistics Colloquium

Calvin University

Paul Harper
Calvin University

April 09, 2026
3:05pm   •   North Hall 276

Minimal Surfaces, Lipids and X-rays

What’s minimal about a minimal surface? We’ll look at this question and see how it connects to the mathematics of curvature. Next is a look at a family of periodic minimal surfaces with interesting commonalities. Intriguingly, these structures are formed by lipids, which are essential components of all life. We’ll end up discussing X-rays, which are the preeminent technique for probing ordered molecular structures.