Re: [math-fun] The problem of the 51st state.

On Fri, 5 Sep 2003 asimovd@aol.com wrote:

(ignoring the rectangular field condition) this is actually a fascinating problem for all lowish numbers:

What is the nicest arrangement of n points in the plane, for each n up to 100?

Further, can you define explicitly what "nicest" means?

I don't really think that's the same question, because in my view, the "flag" problem should be solved by an arrangement that looks roughly like the present one, in outline. This is about the 6th reply I've had since I sent the problem out only a few minutes ago, but only one person has actually suggested a 51-star design. Come on, folks! JHC