Podcast Summary: But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids Episode: Who Created Math Problems?
Release Date: July 11, 2025
Host: Jane Lindholm
Guest: Dr. Melania Alvarez, Outreach Coordinator for the Department of Mathematics at the University of British Columbia and Education Coordinator for the Pacific Institute for the Mathematical Sciences

Introduction

In this engaging episode of But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids, host Jane Lindholm teams up with Dr. Melania Alvarez to explore the origins and significance of math problems. Tailored for young listeners, the conversation demystifies mathematical concepts, making them accessible and exciting. The episode not only answers pressing questions from curious kids but also delves into why math is an integral part of our daily lives.

Meet the Guest: Dr. Melania Alvarez

Dr. Melania Alvarez brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the episode. As the Outreach Coordinator for the Department of Mathematics at the University of British Columbia and the Education Coordinator for the Pacific Institute for the Mathematical Sciences, she is dedicated to showcasing the beauty and excitement of mathematics through games, puzzles, and interactive activities.

Dr. Melania Alvarez [02:31]:
"My job is to go all around showing people how wonderful and interesting and exciting mathematics really is."

Exploring the Origins of Math

The episode begins with fundamental questions from young listeners, such as Sophie (8) and Una (6.5), who ask, "Who invented math?" Dr. Alvarez explains that mathematics is a collective human endeavor that has evolved over thousands of years.

Dr. Melania Alvarez [04:23]:
"Math is something that grew through thousands of years. It's like a magical tree that was planted by many, many people, like the Chinese and the Mayans."

She emphasizes that math is both invented and discovered—humans create systems to understand patterns and solve real-world problems, while certain mathematical truths exist independently of human recognition.

The Purpose and Creation of Math Problems

Jane Lindholm introduces another layer by asking who specifically created math problems. Dr. Alvarez clarifies that math problems originate from real-life scenarios and the need to solve practical issues, rather than being mere classroom exercises.

Dr. Melania Alvarez [06:07]:
"Math problems come from the world. When we start to wonder how to build a pyramid that doesn't crumble or how to divide chocolate equally, these are the problems that give rise to math."

She distinguishes between practical math problems and the often exaggerated or fantastical problems found in textbooks, highlighting that real math problems are grounded in everyday needs and challenges.

Understanding Number Systems and Infinity

Young listeners like Kai (4) and Lily (9) inquire about the nature of numbers and why they seem endless. Dr. Alvarez explains the concept of place value and the infinite nature of numbers.

Dr. Melania Alvarez [07:47]:
"We have this system of writing numbers called place value. One plus one equals two because of where the numbers are positioned. Infinity exists because you can always add one more to any number."

She introduces the idea of large numbers like a "Google" (a 1 followed by 100 zeros) and explains that numbers can extend indefinitely, both in size and through patterns like the Fibonacci sequence, which appears frequently in nature.

Mathematics in Everyday Life

The conversation shifts to why math is essential beyond survival. Dr. Alvarez lists numerous applications of math in daily activities and various professions.

Dr. Melania Alvarez [19:27]:
"You need to do math to go to the supermarket, trade with people, build a house, study chemistry, read graphs about elections, and even trade cards."

Jane adds perspective by relating math to budgeting for family needs or planning a vacation, demonstrating that math is a tool for achieving personal and collective goals.

Overcoming Math Anxiety

Addressing the common sentiment of disliking math, Dr. Alvarez identifies misconceptions and teaching methods as primary contributors to math anxiety.

Dr. Melania Alvarez [13:20]:
"Many times it's the way math is presented—just a series of rules and problems. Real math is about thinking and strategizing."

She encourages students to seek help promptly when they encounter difficulties, emphasizing that understanding foundational concepts is crucial for progressing in mathematics.

Becoming a Mathematician

Young Alistair (unknown age) asks about the path to becoming a mathematician. Dr. Alvarez shares insights into both the innate and learned aspects of mathematical prowess.

Dr. Melania Alvarez [22:13]:
"Everyone is a mathematician in their own way. As professionals, we ask and solve complex questions, either applied or pure, often pursuing higher education like a Ph.D."

She explains the difference between applied mathematicians, who solve practical problems, and pure mathematicians, who explore abstract concepts that may find relevance years later.

Solving the Chicken Farmer Puzzle

Towards the end of the episode, Jane and Dr. Alvarez tackle a fascinating math puzzle posed by the host.

Puzzle Recap:
A farmer sells half his chickens plus half a chicken at three separate markets and ends with zero chickens, with none harmed.

Solution Process:

1. Final Market:
   Jane deduces that the farmer must have had one chicken before the last sale to make the math work without harming any birds.

2. Working Backwards:

   • Before the third market: 1 chicken
   • Before the second market: 3 chickens
   • Before the first market: 7 chickens

Dr. Melania Alvarez [25:18]:
"So you work backwards. You got absolutely right."

Jane reflects on the problem-solving process, highlighting the importance of strategies like working backwards and systematic guessing.

Notable Quotes

• Dr. Melania Alvarez [04:23]:
  "Math is something that grew through thousands of years. It's like a magical tree that was planted by many, many people."

• Dr. Melania Alvarez [13:20]:
  "Real math is about thinking and strategizing. If you dislike math, you might have gotten lost along the way."

• Dr. Melania Alvarez [22:13]:
  "Everyone is a mathematician in their own way. We all can be mathematicians by asking and solving questions."

Conclusion

The episode of But Why? successfully transforms complex mathematical ideas into relatable and understandable concepts for young audiences. Through Dr. Melania Alvarez's expertise and Jane Lindholm's engaging hosting, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for math's role in the world and are encouraged to embrace their curiosity. The episode not only answers the pressing question of who created math problems but also instills confidence in children to explore and enjoy mathematics.

Stay Curious!
For more intriguing episodes and to submit your own questions, visit But Why Kids.