Louisiana Wonder Kids Make History with Revolutionary Proof of Pythagorean Theorem
In the bustling city of Washington, two remarkable Louisiana students, Ne’Kiya Jackson and Calcea Johnson, made waves in 2022 when they unveiled an innovative approach to proving the age-old Pythagorean theorem. Their groundbreaking discovery came as a response to a bonus question in a high school math competition, leaving their teachers in awe.
But that was just the beginning of their extraordinary journey.
Following the encouragement of a volunteer at their former school, St. Mary’s Academy in New Orleans, the dynamic duo decided to take their work to the next level. In March 2023, they became the youngest individuals to present at the prestigious American Mathematical Society’s Southeastern Sectional conference in Atlanta. This momentous occasion sparked a media frenzy, landing them a coveted spot on “60 Minutes.”
Their remarkable achievement didn’t end there. They were honored with symbolic keys to the city of New Orleans and received a shout-out from none other than former First Lady Michelle Obama.
Now, as Jackson and Johnson embark on their college careers, they have achieved yet another milestone. The young scholars have authored an academic paper detailing their original proof of the Pythagorean theorem, along with nine additional proofs. Their groundbreaking work was published on Monday in the esteemed scientific journal American Mathematical Monthly.
Johnson, a sophomore studying environmental engineering at Louisiana State University, expressed her surprise at being published at such a young age. Meanwhile, Jackson, who is pursuing a doctoral degree in pharmacy at Xavier University of Louisiana, shared her astonishment at the unexpected success of their research.
The Pythagorean theorem, attributed to the ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras, has been a cornerstone of mathematics for over two millennia. While many mathematicians have explained the theorem using algebra and geometry, Jackson and Johnson took a unique approach by proving it using trigonometry.
Trigonometry, a subbranch of mathematics that focuses on the study of triangles, presented a particularly challenging avenue for proving the theorem. Using trigonometry to prove the theorem typically involves circular reasoning. However, Jackson and Johnson’s proofs were able to circumvent this issue, as outlined in their study.
Their groundbreaking research outlines five new methods of proving the Pythagorean theorem using trigonometry, revealing a total of ten proofs. During their presentation at the 2023 conference, they showcased only one of these proofs, meaning that nine proofs are entirely novel.
Tom Murdoch, an honorary professor at the University of Bristol’s School of Mathematics in the United Kingdom, hailed their study as “impressive,” noting the innovative approach they took to the problem.
As the young scholars continue to make waves in the academic world, Johnson highlighted the importance of representation for women and women of color in traditionally male-dominated fields. She emphasized the significance of their achievements in inspiring other young women to pursue their passions, breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes along the way.
In a world where knowledge is power and innovation is key, Ne’Kiya Jackson and Calcea Johnson have proven that age is no barrier to brilliance. Their groundbreaking research has not only reshaped our understanding of a fundamental mathematical principle but has also paved the way for future generations to dream big and achieve even bigger.
