Karl Pearson
Published: 2015-08-22
Total Pages: 60
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AN interesting but highly mathematical memoir by Prof. Karl Pearson and Mr. J. Blakeman on "A Mathematical Theory of Random Migration" has just been re-issued. The problem dealt with is, in simple terms, the following:- Given that a large number of individuals move by successive straight steps of length x in random directions, starting from one and the same point, required to find their distribution after y such steps. The solution, which is obtained in terms of Bessel functions, is applicable to such practical problems as the infiltration of mosquitoes into a cleared area, or the recovery of a habitat by a species which has been driven out owing to temporarily unfavourable conditions. Prof. Pearson obtained some assistance in the solution of the problem through a letter addressed to our correspondence columns (vol. lxxii., p. 294, July 27, 1905). -Nature, Volume 75 [1907]