Mathematics: Its Historical Aspects, Wonders And Beyond

Mathematics: Its Historical Aspects, Wonders And Beyond PDF Author: Arthur D Kramer
Publisher: World Scientific
ISBN: 9811248591
Category : Mathematics
Languages : en
Pages : 403

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Book Description
Whenever the topic of mathematics is mentioned, people tend to indicate their weakness in the subject as a result of not having enjoyed its instruction during their school experience. Many students unfortunately do not have very positive experiences when learning mathematics, which can result from teachers who have a tendency 'to teach to the test'. This is truly unfortunate for several reasons. First, basic algebra and geometry, which are taken by almost all students, are not difficult subjects, and all students should be able to master them with the proper motivational instruction. Second, we live in a technical age, and being comfortable with basic mathematics can certainly help you deal with life's daily challenges. Other, less tangible reasons, are the pleasure one can experience from understanding the many intricacies of mathematics and its relation to the real world, experiencing the satisfaction of solving a mathematical problem, and discovering the intrinsic beauty and historical development of many mathematical expressions and relationships. These are some of the experiences that this book is designed to deliver to the reader.The book offers 101 mathematical gems, some of which may require a modicum of high school mathematics and others, just a desire to carefully apply oneself to the ideas. Many folks have spent years encountering mathematical terms, symbols, relationships and other esoteric expressions. Their origins and their meanings may never have been revealed, such as the symbols +, -, =, π. ꝏ, √, ∑, and many others. This book provides a delightful insight into the origin of mathematical symbols and popular theorems such as the Pythagorean Theorem and the Fibonacci Sequence, common mathematical mistakes and curiosities, intriguing number relationships, and some of the different mathematical procedures in various countries. The book uses a historical and cultural approach to the topics, which enhances the subject matter and greatly adds to its appeal. The mathematical material can, therefore, be more fully appreciated and understood by anyone who has a curiosity and interest in mathematics, especially if in their past experience they were expected to simply accept ideas and concepts without a clear understanding of their origins and meaning. It is hoped that this will cast a new and positive picture of mathematics and provide a more favorable impression of this most important subject and be a different experience than what many may have previously encountered. It is also our wish that some of the fascination and beauty of mathematics shines through in these presentations.

Mathematics: Its Historical Aspects, Wonders And Beyond

Mathematics: Its Historical Aspects, Wonders And Beyond PDF Author: Arthur D Kramer
Publisher: World Scientific
ISBN: 9811248591
Category : Mathematics
Languages : en
Pages : 403

Get Book

Book Description
Whenever the topic of mathematics is mentioned, people tend to indicate their weakness in the subject as a result of not having enjoyed its instruction during their school experience. Many students unfortunately do not have very positive experiences when learning mathematics, which can result from teachers who have a tendency 'to teach to the test'. This is truly unfortunate for several reasons. First, basic algebra and geometry, which are taken by almost all students, are not difficult subjects, and all students should be able to master them with the proper motivational instruction. Second, we live in a technical age, and being comfortable with basic mathematics can certainly help you deal with life's daily challenges. Other, less tangible reasons, are the pleasure one can experience from understanding the many intricacies of mathematics and its relation to the real world, experiencing the satisfaction of solving a mathematical problem, and discovering the intrinsic beauty and historical development of many mathematical expressions and relationships. These are some of the experiences that this book is designed to deliver to the reader.The book offers 101 mathematical gems, some of which may require a modicum of high school mathematics and others, just a desire to carefully apply oneself to the ideas. Many folks have spent years encountering mathematical terms, symbols, relationships and other esoteric expressions. Their origins and their meanings may never have been revealed, such as the symbols +, -, =, π. ꝏ, √, ∑, and many others. This book provides a delightful insight into the origin of mathematical symbols and popular theorems such as the Pythagorean Theorem and the Fibonacci Sequence, common mathematical mistakes and curiosities, intriguing number relationships, and some of the different mathematical procedures in various countries. The book uses a historical and cultural approach to the topics, which enhances the subject matter and greatly adds to its appeal. The mathematical material can, therefore, be more fully appreciated and understood by anyone who has a curiosity and interest in mathematics, especially if in their past experience they were expected to simply accept ideas and concepts without a clear understanding of their origins and meaning. It is hoped that this will cast a new and positive picture of mathematics and provide a more favorable impression of this most important subject and be a different experience than what many may have previously encountered. It is also our wish that some of the fascination and beauty of mathematics shines through in these presentations.

Wonders Beyond Numbers

Wonders Beyond Numbers PDF Author: Johnny Ball
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
ISBN: 1472939972
Category : Mathematics
Languages : en
Pages : 481

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Book Description
By introducing us to the major characters and leading us through many historical twists and turns, Johnny slowly unravels the tale of how humanity built up a knowledge and understanding of shapes, numbers and patterns from ancient times, a story that leads directly to the technological wonderland we live in today. As Galileo said, 'Everything in the universe is written in the language of mathematics', and Wonders Beyond Numbers is your guide to this language. (4ème de couverture)

Sharpening Everyday Mental/thinking Skills Through Mathematics Problem Solving And Beyond

Sharpening Everyday Mental/thinking Skills Through Mathematics Problem Solving And Beyond PDF Author: Alfred S Posamentier
Publisher: World Scientific
ISBN: 9811273960
Category : Mathematics
Languages : en
Pages : 338

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Book Description
Mathematics is a subject taught from kindergarten through to high school, and yet it is the one subject that most adults are almost proud to admit to not having been very good at, and, therefore, tend to avoid it where they can. However, one of the key factors in mathematics is its ability to enable us to solve everyday problems. When we consider 'the worst-case scenario' of the situation, it is analogous to solving a mathematical problem by considering extremes. Or, we might consider the best path to take from point A to point B, where geometric relationships can be helpful. This book is intended to demonstrate a variety of neglected aspects of mathematics, in order to demonstrate the power and beauty of the field of mathematics beyond where most people, students, and teachers believe is possible.The chapters of the book explore a multitude of topics: unusual arithmetic calculations and shortcuts, entertaining and instructional problem-solving strategies, unusual applications of algebra, and how geometry allows us to better appreciate physical relationships. Only a basic mathematical knowledge is needed to understand these topics and problems; however, the book also demonstrates that, armed with even this level of understanding, our mathematical skills far exceed what we learned at school! The final chapter is the most challenging, and explores a curious problem-solving technique.

Seduced By Mathematics: The Enduring Fascination Of Mathematics

Seduced By Mathematics: The Enduring Fascination Of Mathematics PDF Author: James D Stein
Publisher: World Scientific
ISBN: 9811255482
Category : Mathematics
Languages : en
Pages : 225

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Book Description
Seduction is not just an end result, but a process — and in mathematics, both the end results and the process by which those end results are achieved are often charming and elegant.This helps to explain why so many people — not just those for whom math plays a key role in their day-to-day lives — have found mathematics so seductive. Math is unique among all subjects in that it contains end results of amazing insight and power, and lines of reasoning that are clever, charming, and elegant. This book is a collection of those results and lines of reasoning that make us say, 'OMG, that's just amazing,' — because that's what mathematics is to those who love it. In addition, some of the stories about mathematical discoveries and the people who discovered them are every bit as fascinating as the discoveries themselves.This book contains material capable of being appreciated by students in elementary school — as well as some material that will probably be new to even the more mathematically sophisticated. Most of the book can be easily understood by those whose only math courses are algebra and geometry, and who may have missed the magic, enchantment, and wonder that is the special province of mathematics.

Mathematics in Historical Context

Mathematics in Historical Context PDF Author: Jeff Suzuki
Publisher: MAA
ISBN: 9780883855706
Category : Mathematics
Languages : en
Pages : 432

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Book Description
An exploration of the interaction between mathematics, mathematicians and society. What would Newton see if he looked out his window?

The Math Book

The Math Book PDF Author: Clifford A. Pickover
Publisher: Union Square + ORM
ISBN: 1402797494
Category : Mathematics
Languages : en
Pages : 937

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Book Description
The Neumann Prize–winning, illustrated exploration of mathematics—from its timeless mysteries to its history of mind-boggling discoveries. Beginning millions of years ago with ancient “ant odometers” and moving through time to our modern-day quest for new dimensions, The Math Book covers 250 milestones in mathematical history. Among the numerous delights readers will learn about as they dip into this inviting anthology: cicada-generated prime numbers, magic squares from centuries ago, the discovery of pi and calculus, and the butterfly effect. Each topic is lavishly illustrated with colorful art, along with formulas and concepts, fascinating facts about scientists’ lives, and real-world applications of the theorems.

Introduction To Chaos, Fractals And Dynamical Systems

Introduction To Chaos, Fractals And Dynamical Systems PDF Author: Phillip A Laplante
Publisher: World Scientific
ISBN: 981127326X
Category : Mathematics
Languages : en
Pages : 217

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Book Description
This book offers a fun and enriching introduction to chaos theory, fractals and dynamical systems, and on the applications of fractals to computer generated graphics and image compression. Introduction to Chaos, Fractals and Dynamical Systems particularly focuses on natural and human phenomenon that can be modeled as fractals, using simple examples to explain the theory of chaos and how it affects all of us. Then, using straightforward mathematic and intuitive descriptions, computer generated graphics and photographs of natural scenes are used to illustrate the beauty of fractals and their importance in our world. Finally, the concept of Dynamical Systems, that is, time-dependent systems, the foundation of Chaos and Fractal, is introduced. Everyday examples are again used to illustrate concepts, and the importance of understanding how these vital systems affect our lives. Throughout the fascinating history of the evolution of chaos theory, fractals and dynamical systems is presented, along with brief introductions to the scientists, mathematicians and engineers who created this knowledge.Introduction to Chaos, Fractals and Dynamical Systems contains ample mathematical definitions, representations, discussions and exercises, so that this book can be used as primary or secondary source in home schooling environments.The book is suitable for homeschooling as a focused course on the subject matter or as a classroom supplement for a variety of courses at the late junior high or early high-school level. For example, in addition to a standalone course on Chaos, Fractals and Dynamical Systems (or similar title), this book could be used with the following courses:The text can also be used in conjunction with mathematics courses for undergraduates for non-science majors. The book can also be used for informal and lively family study and discussion.For each chapter, exercises and things to do are included. These activities range from simple computational tasks to more elaborate computer projects, related activities, biographical research and writing assignments.

Mathematics: A Concise History and Philosophy

Mathematics: A Concise History and Philosophy PDF Author: W.S. Anglin
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 1461208750
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 253

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Book Description
This is a concise introductory textbook for a one-semester (40-class) course in the history and philosophy of mathematics. It is written for mathemat ics majors, philosophy students, history of science students, and (future) secondary school mathematics teachers. The only prerequisite is a solid command of precalculus mathematics. On the one hand, this book is designed to help mathematics majors ac quire a philosophical and cultural understanding of their subject by means of doing actual mathematical problems from different eras. On the other hand, it is designed to help philosophy, history, and education students come to a deeper understanding of the mathematical side of culture by means of writing short essays. The way I myself teach the material, stu dents are given a choice between mathematical assignments, and more his torical or philosophical assignments. (Some sample assignments and tests are found in an appendix to this book. ) This book differs from standard textbooks in several ways. First, it is shorter, and thus more accessible to students who have trouble coping with vast amounts of reading. Second, there are many detailed explanations of the important mathematical procedures actually used by famous mathe maticians, giving more mathematically talented students a greater oppor tunity to learn the history and philosophy by way of problem solving.

A History of Mathematics

A History of Mathematics PDF Author: Victor J. Katz
Publisher: Addison-Wesley Longman
ISBN:
Category : Mathematics
Languages : en
Pages : 1040

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Book Description
One of the leading historians in the mathematics field, Victor Katz provides a world view of mathematics, balancing ancient, early modern, and modern history.

The Development of Mathematics Throughout the Centuries

The Development of Mathematics Throughout the Centuries PDF Author: Brian Evans
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 1118853970
Category : Mathematics
Languages : en
Pages : 197

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Book Description
Throughout the book, readers take a journey throughout time and observe how people around the world have understood these patterns of quantity, structure, and dimension around them. The Development of Mathematics Throughout the Centuries: A Brief History in a Cultural Contex provides a brief overview of the history of mathematics in a very straightforward and understandable manner and also addresses major findings that influenced the development of mathematics as a coherent discipline. This book: Highlights the contributions made by various world cultures including African, Egyptian, Babylonian, Chinese, Indian, Islamic, and pre-Columbian American mathematics Features an approach that is not too rigorous and is ideal for a one-semester course of the history of mathematics. Includes a Resources and Recommended Reading section for further exploration and has been extensively classroom-tested