The Knot Book; An Elementary Introduction to the Mathematical Theory of Knots

by Colin C. Adams

• ISBN13: 9780805073805
• ISBN10: 0805073809
• Format: Trade Paper
• Copyright: 2000-12-06
• Publisher: Holt Paperbacks

Summary

Over a century old, knot theory is today one of the most active areas of modern mathematics. The study of knots has led to important applications in DNA research and the synthesis of new molecules, and has had a significant impact on statistical mechanics and quantum field theory. Colin Adams'sThe Knot Bookis the first book to make cutting-edge research in knot theory accessible to a non-specialist audience. Starting with the simplest knots, Adams guides readers through increasingly more intricate twists and turns of knot theory, exploring problems and theorems mathematicians can now solve, as well as those that remain open. He also explores how knot theory is providing important insights in biology, chemistry, physics, and other fields. The new paperback edition has been updated to include the latest research results, and includes hundreds of illustrations of knots, as well as worked examples, exercises and problems. With a simple piece of string, an elementary mathematical background, andThe Knot Book, anyone can start learning about some of the most advanced ideas in contemporary mathematics.

Author Biography

Colin Adams is Professor of Mathematics at Williams College. He is one of the world’s leading researchers of knot theory and has published widely on this and other mathematical topics. He is the co-author of How to Ace Calculus and winner of the Mathematical Association of America Distinguished Teaching Award for 1998.