Funghini

The function

2 x y / (x^2+y^2) 

is discontinuous at (x,y)=(0,0). The graph is a surface of fixed height along each line through the origin - a very hard concept to wrap the mind around. This creates the fold at the middle. Note in the print below that there are four fixed height lines on it in a different color to emphasize this strange fact. The title of this post reflects the fact that the graph looks very much like a specialty pasta, though I am not completely sure Funghini is the right term.

Calling it a Semester on Multivariable Calculus

This is it for the multivariable calculus 3D print labs. Some students got quite poetic on their final print with names like "Skating Rink," "Guitar Pick," "The Snowcone," and "The Abyss" (The Abyss is not depicted here). Students are mostly enthusiastic about being able to apply the math they are learning (hundreds of years old) to a technology which is less than five years old. The class prints will remain in the department's display case until it runs out of room.