Entertaining Mathematical Puzzles
Unknown
By: Martin Gardner
Playing with mathematical riddles can be an intriguing and fun-filled pastime — as popular science writer Martin Gardner proves in this entertaining collection. Puzzlists need only an elementary knowledge of math and a will to resist looking up the answer before trying to solve a problem. Written in a light and witty style, Entertaining Mathematical Puzzles is a mixture of old and new riddles, grouped into sections that cover a variety of mathematical topics: money, speed, plane and solid geometry, probability, topology, tricky puzzles, and more. The probability section, for example, points out that everything we do, everything that happens around us, obeys the laws of probability; geometry puzzles test our ability to think pictorially and often, in more than one dimension; while topology, among the "youngest and rowdiest branches of modern geometry," offers a glimpse into a strange dimension where properties remain unchanged, no matter how a figure is twisted, stretched, or compressed. Clear and concise comments at the beginning of each section explain the nature and importance of the math needed to solve each puzzle. A carefully explained solution follows each problem. In many cases, all that is needed to solve a puzzle is the ability to think logically and clearly, to be "on the alert for surprising, off-beat angles...that strange hidden factor that everyone else had overlooked." Fully illustrated, this engaging collection will appeal to parents and children, amateur mathematicians, scientists, and students alike, and may, as the author writes, make the reader "want to study the subject in earnest" and explains "some of the inviting paths that wind away from the problems into lusher areas of the mathematical jungle." 65 black-and-white illustrations.
AI Overview
Overview of "Entertaining Mathematical Puzzles" by Martin Gardner
Key Themes:
- Variety of Mathematical Topics: The book covers a wide range of mathematical topics, including money, speed, plane and solid geometry, probability, topology, and tricky puzzles.
- Logical Thinking: The puzzles require logical thinking and problem-solving skills, often involving unexpected angles and hidden factors.
- Illustrations: The book is fully illustrated with 65 black-and-white illustrations, making it visually engaging.
- Accessibility: The puzzles are designed to be solvable with an elementary knowledge of math, making it accessible to a broad audience.
Plot Summary: The book is a collection of mathematical puzzles, each grouped into sections that cover different mathematical topics. The puzzles are presented in a light and witty style, making the book an entertaining read. Each section includes clear and concise comments explaining the nature and importance of the math needed to solve each puzzle. A carefully explained solution follows each problem, guiding readers through the logical steps required to solve the puzzles.
Critical Reception: While specific reviews are not provided in the sources, the book has been praised for its engaging and accessible approach to mathematics. The book is recommended for parents and children, amateur mathematicians, scientists, and students alike. The author's writing style is noted for making the reader want to study the subject in earnest and explore the inviting paths that wind away from the problems into lusher areas of the mathematical jungle.
Additional Information:
- Publication History: The book is a reprint of Martin Gardner's original work, "Mathematical Puzzles," which was first published in 1961.
- Relevance: The book's diverse range of puzzles ensures that it remains relevant and engaging for readers of all ages and skill levels.
In summary, "Entertaining Mathematical Puzzles" by Martin Gardner is a delightful collection of puzzles that not only entertains but also educates readers about various mathematical concepts. Its engaging style and accessible content make it a valuable resource for anyone interested in mathematics.