A Passion for Mathematics: Numbers, Puzzles, Madness, Religion, and the Quest for Reality

Book Description:

A Passion for Mathematics is an educational, entertaining trip through the curiosities of the math world, blending an eclectic mix of history, biography, philosophy, number theory, geometry, probability, huge numbers, and mind-bending problems into a delightfully compelling collection that is sure to please math buffs, students, and experienced mathematicians alike. In each chapter, Clifford Pickover provides factoids, anecdotes, definitions, quotations, and captivating challenges that range from fun, quirky puzzles to insanely difficult problems. Readers will encounter mad mathematicians, strange number sequences, obstinate numbers, curious constants, magic squares, fractal geese, monkeys typing Hamlet, infinity, and much, much more. A Passion for Mathematics will feed readers’ fascination while giving them problem-solving skills a great workout!



Download Description:

A singular collection of fascinating information for those who share a love of all things mathematical A Passion for Mathematics is a delightful, dizzying, and entertaining trip that includes an eclectic mix of history, biography, definitions, number theory, and mind-bending problems. Readers will encounter mad mathematicians, religious mathematicians, strange number sequences, obstinate numbers, curious constants, zany math problems, classic recreational puzzles, magic squares, fractal geese, monkeys typing Hamlet, infinity, and much, much more!



About the Author:

CLIFFORD A. PICKOVER received his Ph.D. from Yale University and is a prolific author of books and articles, including Calculus and Pizza: A Cookbook for the Hungry Mind; Black Holes: A Traveler's Guide; and Keys to Infinity, all from Wiley. His Web site, Pickover.com, has received millions of visits.



Table of Contents:

1 Numbers, history, society, and people 11

2 Cool numbers 45

3 Algebra, percentages, weird puzzles, and marvelous mathematical manipulations 111

4 Geometry, games, and beyond 135

5 Probability : take your chances 209

6 Big numbers and infinity 233

7 Mathematics and beauty 251