Topics in Recreational Mathematics

by J. H. Cadwell

• ISBN13: 9780521096201
• ISBN10: 0521096200
• Edition: Revised
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2009-01-11
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• More Book Details

Summary

This book shows something of the fascination, beauty and power of mathematical ideas. It is based on talks which the author has given to mathematical and scientific audiences, many of whom found the material unfamiliar. The fifteen topics range from the distribution of prime numbers among the integers to the enumeration of the seventeen distinct types of wall-paper pattern. (The standard of mathematics assumed in the reader is roughly that of British university entrance requirements and its equivalent overseas.) The book should be of particular value in sixth-form libraries and to teachers of mathematics at various levels who are looking for new and unusual examples to enliven their work.

Table of Contents

Regular Polyhedra

The Fibonacci Sequence

Nested Polygons

The Distribution of Prime Numbers

Inversion in Elementary Geometry

Some Ruled Surfaces

Random Walks

The Four-Colour Problem

Dissection Problems in Two and Three Dimensions

Newton's Polygon and Plane Algebraic Curves

The Plane Symmetry Groups

The Real Number System

A Theorem of Combinatorial Geometry

The Number Pi

Rotors and Curves of Constant Breadth

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