Unknown Quantity: A Real and Imaginary History of Algebra

Unknown Quantity: A Real and Imaginary History of Algebra

For curious nonmathematicians and armchair algebra buffs, John Derbyshire discovers the story behind the formulae, roots, and radicals. As he did so masterfully in Prime Obsession, Derbyshire brings the evolution of mathematical thinking to dramatic life by focusing on the key historical players. Unknown Quantity begins in the time of Abraham and Isaac and moves from Abel?s proof to the higher levels of abstraction developed by Galois through modern-day advances. Derbyshire explains how a simple turn of thought from ?this plus this equals this? to ?this plus what equals this?? gave birth to a whole new way of perceiving the world. With a historian?s narrative authority and a beloved teacher?s clarity and passion, Derbyshire leads readers on an intellectually satisfying and pleasantly challenging journey through the development of abstract mathematical thought.
Country USA
Brand Plume
Manufacturer Penguin Publishing Group
Binding Paperback
ItemPartNumber 9780452288539
Color Tan
ReleaseDate 2007-05-29
UnitCount 1
EANs 9780452288539

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