Teens surprise math world with Pythagorean Theorem trigonometry proof | 60 Minutes
60 Minutes・2 minutes read
Two high school seniors from St. Mary's Academy in New Orleans, Naya Jackson and Kelsey Johnson, made history by solving a mathematical puzzle and presenting a new proof of the Pythagorean theorem at an American Mathematical Society conference in Atlanta, earning global recognition and praise. Despite their achievement, the students have since pursued different career paths, with Naya studying pharmacy and Kelsey focusing on environmental engineering.
Insights
- Naya Jackson and Kelsey Johnson, students from St. Mary's Academy, solved a centuries-old mathematical puzzle by using trigonometry to create a novel proof of the Pythagorean theorem.
- Their groundbreaking proof, presented at an American Mathematical Society conference, received global acclaim, including recognition from prominent figures like Michelle Obama and the governor of New Orleans.
Get key ideas from YouTube videos. It’s free
Recent questions
How did Naya and Kelsey gain recognition?
Through solving a mathematical puzzle at a conference.
What school did Naya and Kelsey attend?
St. Mary's Academy in New Orleans.
What did Naya and Kelsey achieve?
They solved a mathematical puzzle thought impossible for 2,000 years.
What career path did Naya choose?
Pharmacy.
What career path did Kelsey choose?
Environmental engineering.