Presenter(s)

Morgan Battig, Zachary Henderson

Comments

10:45-12:00, Kennedy Union Ballroom

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Description

This project explores the fundamental concepts of differential equations and their practical applications in various fields. This project covers its connection to forensic science, specifically the case of Han van Meegeren, a renowned art forger. The project discusses how mathematical models, including differential equations, can be applied to the analysis of aging and degradation processes in paintings. Additionally, forensic methods such as X-ray imaging, pigment analysis, and chemical aging detection are explored, illustrating the intersection between mathematics and scientific investigation. The study highlights the versatility of differential equations in modeling real-world phenomena, from natural decay processes to forensic authentication techniques. The artist, Han van Meegeren claimed that he forged a famous artwork. Differential equations were used to measure the half-life radioactivity of the paint and materials in the picture to see if it was truly a fake. The investigators decided to focus on the small amount of uranium found in every ore that was subsequently used to make paint from the time. As such they studied the half-life of the uranium and measured how much lead-210 and radium were present in the picture. These elements come from uranium as it breaks down and tries to become neutral. The investigators then took samples of ore from around the world to get a baseline for how fast radium disintegrated per minute. Investigators also wanted to see if the painting had more radioactivity from the radium or lead 210. The result of using differential equations found that the painting in question was undoubtedly a fake and thus math can be a very helpful tool for finding out the truth in the murkiness that is the world.

Publication Date

4-23-2025

Project Designation

Course Project - MTH 219 04

Primary Advisor

Muhammad Usman

Primary Advisor's Department

Mathematics

Keywords

Stander Symposium, College of Arts and Sciences

Institutional Learning Goals

Scholarship

Is this Painting Forged or Not? Use Differential Equations to Decide

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