Unknown Quantity: A Real and Imaginary History of Algebra
by Derbyshire, John
- Used
- Very Good
- Hardcover
- Condition
- Very Good/Very Good Dust Jacket
- ISBN 10
- 030909657X
- ISBN 13
- 9780309096577
- Seller
-
West Brookfield, Massachusetts, United States
Payment Methods Accepted
About This Item
Synopsis
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.
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Details
- Bookseller
- Book Bear (US)
- Bookseller's Inventory #
- 028813
- Title
- Unknown Quantity: A Real and Imaginary History of Algebra
- Author
- Derbyshire, John
- Format/Binding
- Hardcover
- Book Condition
- Used - Very Good
- Jacket Condition
- Very Good Dust Jacket
- Quantity Available
- 1
- ISBN 10
- 030909657X
- ISBN 13
- 9780309096577
- Publisher
- Joseph Henry Press
- Place of Publication
- Washington, D.C.
- Date Published
- 2006
- Size
- 8vo - over 7¾" - 9&f
- Keywords
- Mathematics Algebra
Terms of Sale
Book Bear
About the Seller
Book Bear
About Book Bear
Glossary
Some terminology that may be used in this description includes:
- Jacket
- Sometimes used as another term for dust jacket, a protective and often decorative wrapper, usually made of paper which wraps...