The Shape of Gravity: Why On Earth Are Planets Spherical? - Alain Goriely

About this episode

Alain Goriely discusses the mathematical and physical principles behind why planets are spherical.

This lecture was recorded by Alain Goriely on the 3rd of March 2026 at Barnard’s Inna Hall, London Alain Goriely is a mathematician with broad interests in mathematical methods, mechanics, sciences, and engineering. He is well known for his contributions to dynamical systems, mathematical biology, as well as fundamental and applied mechanics. He is particularly well known for the development of a mathematical theory of biological growth, culminating with his seminal monograph The Mathematics...

People in this episode

Guest: Alain Goriely

Topics covered

• gravity
• planetary shape
• mathematics
• mechanics
• biological growth

Keywords

• gravity
• planets
• mathematics
• mechanics
• biological growth

Mentioned in this episode

Places: Barnard’s Inna Hall, London

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