Master of chaos wins $3M math prize for ‘blowing up’ equations

image via New Scientist

April 18, 2026, 11:00 PM

• •Merle studies nonlinear equations that exhibit extreme behaviors.
• •He focuses on solitons to understand the chaos of nonlinear systems.
• •Merle's work has applications in lasers, fluids, and quantum mechanics.
• •He received the Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics for his achievements.

Frank Merle, a mathematician specializing in nonlinear equations, has won the Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics, including a $3 million award. Merle's work focuses on understanding how these equations, which are highly sensitive to initial conditions, can lead to unpredictable behaviors like 'blowups.' His approach involves embracing the nonlinear aspects of these equations, particularly solitons, to simplify and understand complex systems. This approach has led to significant breakthroughs in areas such as lasers, fluids, and quantum mechanics, showcasing the beauty and simplicity hidden within chaos.

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