The Enjoyment of Math

Description

The classic book that shares the enjoyment of mathematics with readers of all skill levels. What is so special about the number 30? Do the prime numbers go on forever? Are there more whole numbers than even numbers? The Enjoyment of Math explores these and other captivating problems and puzzles, introducing readers to some of the most fundamental ideas in mathematics. Written by two eminent mathematicians and requiring only a background in plane geometry and elementary algebra, this delightful book covers topics such as the theory of sets, the four-colour problem, regular polyhedrons, Euler's proof of the infinitude of prime numbers, and curves of constant breadth. Along the way, it discusses the history behind the problems, carefully explaining how each has arisen and, in some cases, how to resolve it. With an incisive foreword by Alex Kontorovich, this Princeton Science Library edition shares the enjoyment of maths with a new generation of readers.

Hans Rademacher (1892-1969) was professor emeritus of mathematics at the University of Pennsylvania. Otto Toeplitz (1881-1940) was a leading mathematician specializing in linear algebra and functional analysis. Alex Kontorovich is professor of mathematics at Rutgers University.