Unknown Quantity: A Real and Imaginary History of Algebra
by Derbyshire, John
- Used
- Paperback
- Condition
- Like New
- ISBN 10
- 0452288533
- ISBN 13
- 9780452288539
- Seller
-
New Castle, Colorado, 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
- Michael Patrick McCarty, Bookseller (US)
- Bookseller's Inventory #
- SKU2010027054
- Title
- Unknown Quantity: A Real and Imaginary History of Algebra
- Author
- Derbyshire, John
- Format/Binding
- Softcover
- Book Condition
- New Like New
- Quantity Available
- 1
- Binding
- Paperback
- ISBN 10
- 0452288533
- ISBN 13
- 9780452288539
- Publisher
- Plume Books
- Place of Publication
- New York
- Date Published
- 2007
- Size
- 5x0x7
- X weight
- 12 oz
Terms of Sale
Michael Patrick McCarty, Bookseller
All books sent media mail unless otherwise requested. International shipping at cost (please ask for shipping quote). All items returnable if not as described. Please notify us immediately with any problems.
About the Seller
Michael Patrick McCarty, Bookseller
About Michael Patrick McCarty, Bookseller
Glossary
Some terminology that may be used in this description includes:
- New
- A new book is a book previously not circulated to a buyer. Although a new book is typically free of any faults or defects, "new"...