Questions About Infinite Powers: How Calculus Reveals the Secrets of the Universe

by Steven H. Strogatz (Goodreads Author)

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Answered Questions (5)

Why don't they teach us about the things this book talks about when we take math in High School? It is so important to understand the history to really appreciate the value of the subject. I am finding this book fascinating.

Shaharee Vyaas Sometimes it´s just the old saying: unknown is unbeloved. I demonstrated once to a professor in American Literature how trends in literary fiction can…moreSometimes it´s just the old saying: unknown is unbeloved. I demonstrated once to a professor in American Literature how trends in literary fiction can be mathematically expressed and analyzed by an algorithm. The calculus showed some weird correlations, worth further investigation, but he declared that he wanted having nothing to do with such literature. Just as if you can deny the existence of some phenomena because they don´t fit into your ways of perceiving and interpreting the reality.(less)

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I am a maths major, will I gain anything new by reading this book ?

Joel Shore I agree with Urban about the communication aspect, but would just add (from the point of view of a physicist) that you will also probably learn more a…moreI agree with Urban about the communication aspect, but would just add (from the point of view of a physicist) that you will also probably learn more about the history of calculus and that at least some of the applications will likely be new to you. It is a very well-written book with lots of insight. This book was actually recommended in an e-mail discussion with several math professors at the university where I teach physics.(less)

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This question contains spoilers... (view spoiler)

〝Simon 〟 I hope so. Apparently this message is too short so I'm expanding it.…moreI hope so. Apparently this message is too short so I'm expanding it.(less)

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I'm an A level first year student. Is this book hard or easy to understand?

Willy It's essential to understand the philosophy of calculus through this book. I just derived a geometrical equation to solve the integration by parts pro…moreIt's essential to understand the philosophy of calculus through this book. I just derived a geometrical equation to solve the integration by parts problem thanks to this book. So, it's fundamental which is fit A-Level(less)

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Is this an easy read fro a teen?

Willy Pretty easy if you already know what is derivative and integration

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