63rd Annual STS (2003-2004)
Finalists
Gaurav Subhash Thakur

MARYLAND
Gaurav Subhash Thakur, 17, of Rockville, studied generalized factorial functions for his Intel Science Talent Search project in mathematics. Gaurav analyzed the "powerfactorial" function PFn(x), a function obtained by iterating powers of successive numbers. For example, PF1(3) = 11 22 33 = 108. Likewise, PF2(3) = 112 222 332 = 11664. He extended this function to complex values of x, then derived several properties for it, as well as identities and expressions analogous to classical results for n! -- the usual factorial function. The study of the powerfactorial is important because of its close connection to spectral function theory, differential geometry, string theory and the Riemann Hypothesis. After earning his diploma from The Learning Community International in Columbia, Gaurav plans to attend Princeton or the University of Maryland. His hobbies include computer gaming and game modification as well as designing and constructing Lego models. His interests include physics and machine design, although math is his first love. His community service activities include work as a kindergarten teacher's assistant. Gaurav is the son of Dr. Subhash and Smita Thakur.