Unknown Quantity: A Real and Imaginary History of Algebra
by Derbyshire, John
- Used
- Condition
- Used - Very Good
- ISBN 10
- 030909657X
- ISBN 13
- 9780309096577
- Seller
-
Frederick, Maryland, 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
- Wonder Book (US)
- Bookseller's Inventory #
- H15A-02757
- Title
- Unknown Quantity: A Real and Imaginary History of Algebra
- Author
- Derbyshire, John
- Book Condition
- Used - Very Good
- Binding
- Hardcover
- ISBN 10
- 030909657X
- ISBN 13
- 9780309096577
- Publisher
- Joseph Henry Press
- Place of Publication
- Washington, D.c.
- This edition first published
- 2006-05
Terms of Sale
Wonder Book
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