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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 12.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Chaotic looking numbers may have simplistic algorithms but why are many difficult to determine?
(a) Because they are not computable.
(b) It is impossible to work back from the number to find them.
(c) The number is too complex.
(d) The number is too difficult to compress through computation.

2. Seventeenth numerical tables were set up so that what factor could be learned about each number?
(a) The base number.
(b) The logarithm.
(c) The square root.
(d) Pi.

3. A psychologist named George Miller noticed that people seem to be able to easily remember up to how many items at a time?
(a) Five.
(b) Seven.
(c) Twelve.
(d) Ten.

4. Why did Lovelace publish her mathematical arguments anonymously?
(a) She didn't want to appear more intelligent than Babbage.
(b) Women were not expected to engage in scientific or academic efforts.
(c) She wasn't sure her arguments were correct.
(d) She didn't want to embarrass her father.

5. At an exclusive meeting in New York City, Shannon commented that the English language had what characteristic?
(a) A unique dynamism.
(b) A special intonation.
(c) A recognizable rhythm.
(d) A specific entropy.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why is the randomness of numbers difficult to define?

2. When were computers first unveiled?

3. How was the machine created by Charles Babbage received?

4. What did Chaitin mean by a "computable" number?

5. What is an algorithm?

(see the answer key)

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