Mathematician argues a genus-3 polyhedron can exist
A researcher argues that a genus-3 polyhedron, a geometric shape with three holes, can exist in the real world. Demonstrating that such a shape is physically realizable is difficult, according to the supplied report, which describes the object as a rare eight-faced shape and says the claim is new to science.

A researcher argues that a genus-3 polyhedron can exist in the real world, according to New Scientist.
The report describes the object as a rare eight-faced shape with three holes. It says demonstrating that a new geometric shape can physically exist is difficult.
THE QUESTIONS THIS EVENT LEAVES BEHIND
What construction or proof does the researcher use to support the claim?
What conditions would be required for the shape to exist in the real world?
How is the reported shape distinguished from previously known polyhedra?
What independent verification has been provided?
What practical uses, if any, could follow from demonstrating that the shape can exist?
YOUR QUESTION
Does this story leave you with another question?
Send us the question the report did not answer. It may become the next question IAQ investigates.
GLOBAL CURIOSITY MAP · AUGUST 2026