Unknown Quantity

Name: Unknown Quantity
Price: 49.99 AUD
Availability: OutOfStock
ISBN: 9780452288539

A Real and Imaginary History of Algebra

John Derbyshire

$49.99

Paperback

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English

Plume
29 May 2007

Mathematics & Sciences; Algebra

Perfect for history buffs and armchair algebra experts, Unknown Quantitytells the story of the development of abstract mathematical thought.

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 historical and mathematical journey.

By: John Derbyshire
Imprint: Plume
Country of Publication: United States
Dimensions: Height: 201mm, Width: 134mm, Spine: 22mm
Weight: 340g
ISBN: 9780452288539
ISBN 10: 0452288533
Pages: 384
Publication Date: 29 May 2007
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

Reviews for Unknown Quantity: A Real and Imaginary History of Algebra

Both compelling and easy to follow. ( Library Journal ) The story of algebra is the story of civilization itself. Unknown Quantity buzzes with rivalries, frustrations, and breakthroughs . . . a first-rate account. ( New Scientist ) [A] very entertaining survey of the development of algebra. (Publishers Weekly)