Abstract: After a short introduction on the symplectic packing problem, we will explain how recent results of B‐H. Li, T.‐J. Li, A. K. Liu, and Gao on symplectic cones lead to a concrete understanding of symplectic packings for rational ruled surfaces. If time permits, we will also explain how this relates to recent work of M. Hutchings on embedded contact homology.

This is joint work with O. Buse.

Abstract: If you travel $m$ miles in $t$ hours, then you have averaged $m/t$ miles per hour. But did you ever travel at that speed for an instant? What about for an hour? In this talk we look at three problems that arise from continous motion, including a physical interpretation of the intermediate value theorem and some counter intuitive results about average speeds. With inspiration from Siyavus Acar and Ralph Boas.