The Significance of Symmetry: Exploring T-numbers and their Role in Virus Survival and Behavior

Jenna Franco ’25, Biology major Taylor Ligozio ’25, Biology major Faculty mentor: Dr. Su Jeong Kang, Mathematics and Computer Science We studied the symmetry of different structures in common viruses and their T-numbers. We related these T-numbers with characteristics of the virus. Next we researched how the T-number of each virus was optimal for its survival and reproduction in its environment. We can use this information to infer or predict the behavior of viruses in the future based on their T-numbers.