Tropical Interpolation

Many people in algebraic geometry know that there are 12 different ways to pass a rational cubic through 8 points in the plane. It is not as well-known that if the 8 points are real, then at least 8 of the 12 solutions to this interpolation problem are real. This is part of an unfolding story that ties together many recent developments in real algebraic geometry, including Enumerative Real Algebraic Geometry, Tropical Geometry, and Applications. In my talk (which does not assume you knew the problem of the first sentence) I will present this intriguing story.

Refreshments will be served at the PIMS Facility prior to the colloquium.