Mathematical drolleries

[InvisibleSoul]

Originally Posted by fobulaus

Any function f(x) (except e^x and a few other exceptions) will become zero if it has been differentiated enough times by d/dx. But if the operator is d/dy, then it treats e^x as a constant (since e^x does not have any variable with respect to y) hence becomes zero right away...

I think I should have paid more attention in calculus.

I was thinking the joke was based on word play and you have to read it a certain way... guess not.

[slammer111]

Originally Posted by haymura

Math problems? Call 1-800-[(10x)(13i)2]-[sin(xy)/2.362x]

This made me lmao!

Can someone explain? Probably overanalyzing this one..

***

Here's another one. Heard this during Undergrad somewhere.

A mathematician, physicist, and engineer are each given an identical rubber ball and told to find the volume of the ball.

The mathematician grabs a pair of calipers, carefully measures the diameter, writes out 2-variable function f(x,y) to describe the shape of the ball, and integrates to get the volume.

The physicist takes a beaker, fills it exactly halfway with water, and drops the ball in. He measures the change in water level and calculates the volume.

The engineer looks at the ball, finds the model number, and reaches for his Table of Rubber Balls..