Making mathematics tangible
Conceived, curated and headed by Professor Jürgen Richter-Gebert, the mathematics exhibition ix-quadrat within the Department of Mathematics at the TUM opened in November 2002. It is a hands-on exhibition which aims to awaken interest in mathematics and makes hands-on mathematics tangible in the truest sense of the word.
The exhibition has three central themes:
- Symmetry
- Different ways to calculate
- Perspectives of the graphic artist M. C. Escher
There are also three sorts of exhibition material:
- Exhibits behind glass – to marvel at
- Free-standing exhibits: All exhibits that are not behind glass invite visitors to actively try out and experiment and are designed for this very purpose.
- Digital media: Computer programs that allow visitors to delve deeper into the respective subject area round off the program. The computer is only used when it offers real added value.
Opening hours
* October 18, 2024: 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.
* October 29, 2024: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
* October 31, 2024: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
* November 22, 2024: 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.
* December 13, 2024: 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.
* January 2, 2025: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
* January 3, 2025: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Exhibition room
The exhibition room of the ix-quadrat is located in the main building of the Department of Mathematics on the Research Campus Garching.
Virtual tours through the ix-quadrat
We are happy to offer your group or school class a virtual visit via BBB or Zoom. Here you can get to know our content and exhibits in person. With web programs and handicraft activities, the participants can also get involved themselves. Please send us an email to ix-quadrat@ma.tum.de to discuss the contents and arrange an appointment.
Crafting and painting at home – with math
Painting visual works of art or making colorful patterned eggs: At Math for Kids you will find many ideas for understanding mathematics in an entertaining way at home.
Visit the ix-quadrat
The ix-quadrat offers prebooked guided tours for all ages. However, we regret to inform you that our tours are mainly in German, with the possibility of a few limited exceptions. Please contact Jutta Niebauer for all tour enquiries.
You are of course more than welcome to visit our exhibition during our regular opening hours and spend time trying out our fascinating exhibits.
Individuals can visit our exhibition during the current opening hours without prior appointment. Math students are available to explain the exhibits (also in English as far as possible).
As the majority of students taking part in our activities are from schools in the near vicinity, information and guided tours are usually in German. However, if you would like to visit the ix-quadrat, we will try to arrange activities in English. Nevertheless, please understand that our resources are limited.
Enquiries
Please contact Jutta Niebauer
- under the phone number +49 89 289 18359
- or via email to ix-quadrat@ma.tum.de