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The Mathematics of Card Shuffling: A Journey Towards Randomness
How many shuffles does it take to mix a deck of 52 playing cards? Behind this simple question lies a surprisingly deep mathematical theory. In this lecture, we explore what it means for a deck of cards to be ‘well mixed’, examine several classical shuffling methods, and see why certain methods require far more iterations to produce a random deck than others. We will view card shuffling through the lens of random walks, a mathematical framework used to model phenomena across physics, evolutionary biology and beyond.
The presentation will be followed by discussion and drinks. The event is free. Registration required via the form below.
This event will take place in accordance with the framework developed by a number of Oxford colleges, including Worcester College, to promote free speech at Oxford. Details of this framework and ‘tips’ for productive discussion of difficult topics are to be found at: www.worc.ox.ac.uk/fos. By attending this event, attendees agree to adhere to these guidelines and the terms and conditions of the event which uphold Worcester College’s commitment to freedom of speech: www.worc.ox.ac.uk/fos/massada
Date:
9 February 2026, 17:15
Venue:
Worcester College, Walton Street OX1 2HB
Venue Details:
Sultan Nazrin Shah Centre
Speaker:
Dr Itay Glazer (Technion)
Organising department:
Worcester College
Organiser:
Dr Naomi Rokotnitz (University of Oxford)
Organiser contact email address:
naomi.rokotnitz@worc.ox.ac.uk
Part of:
Massada Public Seminars
Booking required?:
Required
Booking url:
https://www.worc.ox.ac.uk/news-events/events/dr-itay-glazer-the-mathematics-of-card-shuffling?utm_source=oxt&utm_medium=referral
Cost:
Free
Audience:
Public
Editor:
Nathan Stazicker
