Jessie MacWilliams facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Florence Jessie MacWilliams
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | January 4, 1917 Stoke-on-Trent, England
|
| Died | May 27, 1990 (aged 73) |
| Alma mater | University of Cambridge, BA, 1938, MA, 1939, Johns Hopkins University, Harvard University, PhD under Andrew Gleason |
| Occupation | Mathematician, programmer |
| Employer | Bell Labs |
| Known for | The MacWilliams identities in coding theory |
|
Notable work
|
The Theory of Error-Correcting Codes, with Neil Sloane |
| Children | Daughter Anne, two sons |
Florence Jessie Collinson MacWilliams (born January 4, 1917 – died May 27, 1990) was an amazing English mathematician. She made big contributions to a field called coding theory. This field helps make sure information travels safely and without errors. She was also one of the first women to publish important work in this area. Her most famous discovery is known as the MacWilliams identity.
Contents
Her Journey in Math
Florence MacWilliams was born in Stoke-on-Trent, England. She loved learning and studied at the famous University of Cambridge. She earned her first degree (BA) in 1938 and her master's degree (MA) the next year.
In 1939, she moved to the United States. There, she continued her studies at Johns Hopkins University. A year later, she went to Harvard University to learn even more.
Working at Bell Labs
In 1955, Florence started working as a programmer at Bell Labs. This was a very important research company. There, she learned all about coding theory. She did a lot of major research at Bell Labs.
Even though she was doing great work, she needed a special degree called a PhD to get a promotion. She worked hard to meet the requirements for her PhD while also taking care of her family. She finished her PhD at Harvard University in 1962. Her daughter Anne also studied math at Harvard at the same time!
What is Coding Theory?
Coding theory is a branch of mathematics and computer science. It helps us send information, like messages or data, over long distances. It makes sure the information arrives correctly, even if there are errors or "noise" during the journey. Think of it like adding a secret check to your message. This check helps you know if any part of the message got mixed up.
MacWilliams Identity
Florence MacWilliams is most famous for her special formula, called the MacWilliams identity. This identity is a very important rule in coding theory. It helps mathematicians understand how different types of codes work. It was a big step forward in making sure digital information is sent accurately.
She also worked on other types of codes. These included cyclic codes, which are used in many digital systems. She also helped solve a difficult problem about certain math designs.
A Major Book
One of Florence MacWilliams's biggest achievements was writing a huge book. It was called The Theory of Error-Correcting Codes. She wrote it with another mathematician named Neil Sloane. This book was published in 1977.
People say this book is one of the most complete guides to error-correcting codes. It helped lay the foundation for a big revolution in how we communicate today. This includes things like how your phone sends messages or how data travels on the internet.
Recognition
Florence MacWilliams was recognized for her amazing work. In 1980, she was the first person to give the Noether Lecture. This is a special talk given by women who have made big contributions to mathematics.
