Problem Solved!: The Great Breakthroughs in Mathematics

by Robert Snedden

Robert Sneden explores the great mathematical breakthroughs in history. Over time, our knowledge of mathematics has progressed in response to our desire to make life easier. Initially, the first breakthroughs were motivated by very practical problems, but as our understanding of theory advanced, a desire to solve more abstract problems has led to some incredible discoveries.

Each chapter opens with a helpful overview and timeline of events, putting each breakthrough in perspective. From the inventions of algebra and geometry to probability and the Turing machine and the birth of the computer, you can see how each fascinating breakthrough paved the way for the next.

Genres: Science

ebook

Published November 15, 2018

Reviews

[Bob · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book! Much information that I use in my math classes.

For example, number use by humans dates back about 37,000 years; in the form of notches cut into bones. Written numbers originated about 4,000 years ago.

And the word “subitize” which is missing from most math texts. Subitize means you can recognize a quantity at a glance, without counting, which humans can do to 5.

And much more!

[Typo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice overview of the state of math today. Maybe I am weird but I would have liked more equations.

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very enjoyable survey of basic topics in mathematics.