The Secret Life of Numbers: 50 Easy Pieces on How Mathematicians Work and Think.THE SECRET LIFE OF NUMBERS: 50 Easy Pieces on How mathematicians Mathematicians by letter: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z See also
GEORGE G. SZPIRO Most people give little thought to how mathematicians work and how that work pertains to everyday life, Szpiro writes. He attributes the attitude to the misguided mis·guid·ed adj. Based or acting on error; misled: well-intentioned but misguided efforts; misguided do-gooders. mis·guid notion that any math but the most basic is too difficult for the average person. The author attempts to remove some of the mystery surrounding sur·round tr.v. sur·round·ed, sur·round·ing, sur·rounds 1. To extend on all sides of simultaneously; encircle. 2. To enclose or confine on all sides so as to bar escape or outside communication. n. mathematics and its pursuit as a vocation. In 50 brief, entertaining, and often-whimsical stories, the author, a mathematician turned journalist, details such mathematical calculations as those behind making a calendar and laying ceramic This article is about ceramic materials. For the fine art, see Ceramic art. The word ceramic is derived from the Greek word κεραμικός (keramikos). rtiles efficiently. He reveals some of the personal stories that are part of the history of mathematics. Vignettes reveal the role of math in political elections and why icicles have ripples. Szpiro's collection of puzzles puz·zle v. puz·zled, puz·zling, puz·zles v.tr. 1. To baffle or confuse mentally by presenting or being a difficult problem or matter. 2. and trivia can give readers a new appreciation for math. Nat. Acad. Press, 2006, 216 p., hardcover, $24.95. |
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