
Sphere packing
Sphere packing refers to the arrangement of spheres within a given space to maximize their density—essentially, fitting as many spheres as possible into a defined volume without overlaps. This concept is important in various fields, such as physics, materials science, and logistics. A well-known example is how oranges are stacked in a grocery store, where they form a stable, compact structure. Researchers study different packing arrangements to find the most efficient ways to use space, which can impact industries like shipping, manufacturing, and even packing in everyday life.