Another 5 numbers

"Following on from the original series, exploring numbers from zero to infinity, Simon Singh uncovers the mathematical, social and scientific history and significance of another five numbers, over five exploratory episodes.

These numbers have been at the centre of some of mathematics' most challenging problems and Simon reveals their historical, practical and esoteric merits. Along the way we get to grips with the search for the largest prime number, which serves as a tool for the encoding and encryption of information on the internet. Whilst in the casinos of America, mathematicians are making gambling heads roll: why is the number 7 so influential in properly shuffling a pack of cards?"

Listen.