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Unknown Quantity: A Real And Imaginary History Of Algebra
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Prime Obsession Taught Us Not To Be Afraid To Put The Math In A Math Book. Unknown Quantity Heeds The Lesson Well. So Grab Your Graphing Calculators, Slip Out The Slide Rules, And Buckle Up! John Derbyshire Is Introducing Us To Algebra Through The Agesand It Promises To Be Just What His Diehard Fans Have Been Waiting For. Here Is The Story Of Algebra. With This Deceptively Simple Introduction, We Begin Our Journey. Flanked By Formulae, Shadowed By Roots And Radicals, Escorted By An Expert Who Navigates Unerringly On Our Behalf, We Are Guaranteed Safe Passage Through Even The Most Treacherous Mathematical Terrain. Our First Encounter With Algebraic Arithmetic Takes Us Back 38 Centuries To The Time Of Abraham And Isaac, Jacob And Joseph, Ur And Haran, Sodom And Gomorrah. Moving Deftly From Abel'S Proof To The Higher Levels Of Abstraction Developed By Galois, We Are Eventually Introduced To What Algebraists Have Been Focusing On During The Last Century. As We Travel Through The Ages, It Becomes Apparent That The Invention Of Algebra Was More Than The Start Of A Specific Discipline Of Mathematicsit Was Also The Birth Of A New Way Of Thinking That Clarified Both Basic Numeric Concepts As Well As Our Perception Of The World Around Us. Algebraists Broke New Ground When They Discarded The Simple Search For Solutions To Equations And Concentrated Instead On Abstract Groups. This Dramatic Shift In Thinking Revolutionized Mathematics. Written For Those Among Us Who Are Unencumbered By A Fear Of Formulae, Unknown Quantity Delivers On Its Promise To Present A History Of Algebra. Astonishing In Its Bold Presentation Of The Math And Graced With Narrative Authority, Our Journey Through The World Of Algebra Is At Once Intellectually Satisfying And Pleasantly Challenging.
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This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: The book has three hundred ninety pages. It provides a comprehensive history of algebra through different eras and concepts.
- Q: What are the dimensions of this book? A: The book measures six point four two inches in length, one point three four inches in width, and nine point one three inches in height. These dimensions make it a standard-sized hardcover book.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Unknown Quantity'? A: The author is John Derbyshire. He is known for his engaging writing style, making complex mathematical concepts accessible.
- Q: What type of binding does the book have? A: The book is bound in hardcover. This type of binding offers durability and a premium feel for readers.
- Q: What genre does 'Unknown Quantity' belong to? A: The book is categorized under History. It explores the evolution of algebra and its impact on mathematics.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners in mathematics? A: Yes, the book is suitable for beginners. It introduces algebraic concepts in an engaging manner without assuming prior knowledge.
- Q: How does the author explain complex mathematical ideas? A: The author explains complex ideas through storytelling and historical context. This approach makes mathematics relatable and less intimidating.
- Q: What reading level is this book appropriate for? A: The book is appropriate for adult readers and mature teens. It contains sophisticated concepts that require a basic understanding of mathematics.
- Q: Can I read this book if I have a fear of math? A: Yes, you can read this book even if you fear math. The author aims to alleviate fears by presenting math in a narrative form.
- Q: How should I store this hardcover book? A: Store the book in a cool, dry place, upright on a shelf. This will help maintain the binding and prevent damage.
- Q: Is there any special care required for this book? A: No special care is required, but avoid exposure to direct sunlight. This will prevent fading and keep the book in good condition.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you should contact the seller for a return or replacement. Most retailers have policies in place for such issues.
- Q: Are there any additional resources for understanding the book's content? A: Yes, supplementary resources may include online forums, educational websites, or discussion groups focused on algebra. These can enhance your understanding.
- Q: How does this book compare to other math history books? A: This book is unique due to its narrative style. Unlike traditional textbooks, it weaves historical context into the explanation of mathematical concepts.
- Q: Is this book appropriate for a book club? A: Yes, this book is appropriate for a book club. Its engaging narrative and historical insights can spark interesting discussions.
- Q: What themes are explored in 'Unknown Quantity'? A: The book explores themes of mathematical evolution, abstract thinking, and the historical significance of algebra. It highlights how these concepts shape our understanding of the world.