News Math

An elusive equation describing bird eggs of all shapes has been found at last

The case of the pear-shaped eggs was toughest to crack

image of a variety of bird eggs

A new elusive equation describes all natural bird egg shapes. Experts say it could have applications in food, agricultural and conservation research.

E.R. Degginger/Alamy Stock Photo

By Rachel Crowell

For years, scientists have tried to crack a mathematical mystery: Is there an equation that can perfectly describe each and every bird egg? Variable shell shapes complicated things. But it turns out the answer is simple.