mathematics / general

"In 'How Not to Be Wrong', Jordan Ellenberg shows us that math isn't confined to abstract incidents that never occur in real life, but rather touches everything we do...pulls from history as well as from the latest theoretical developments to provide those not trained in math with the knowledge they need"--Provided by publisher.

"From teleportation and space elevators to alien contact and interstellar travel, science fiction and fantasy writers have come up with some brilliant and innovative ideas. Yet how plausible are these ideas--for instance, could Mr. Weasley's flying car in Harry Potter really exist? Which concepts might actually happen--and which ones wouldn't work at all? Wizards, Aliens, and Starships delves into the most extraordinary details in science fiction and fantasy--such as time warps, shape changing, rocket launches, and illumination by floating candle--and shows readers the physics and math behind the phenomena. With simple mathematical models, and in most cases using no more than high school algebra, Charles Adler ranges across a plethora of remarkable imaginings, from the works of Ursula K. Le Guin to Star Trek and Avatar, to explore what might become reality. Adler explains why fantasy in the Harry Potter and Dresden Files novels cannot adhere strictly to scientific laws, and when magic might make scientific sense in the muggle world. He examines space travel and wonders why it isn't cheaper and more common today. Adler also discusses exoplanets and how the search for alien life has shifted from radio communications to space-based telescopes. He concludes by investigating the future survival of humanity and other intelligent races. Throughout, he cites an abundance of science fiction and fantasy authors, and includes concise descriptions of stories as well as a glossary of science terms. Wizards, Aliens, and Starships will speak to anyone wanting to know about the correct--and incorrect--science of science fiction and fantasy"--.

Max Tegmark explains the physics, astronomy, and mathematics that are the foundation of his work, focusing on his hypothesis that physical reality is a mathematical structure and his theory of the ultimate multiverse.

Explores the cosmic equations and numbers--the mathematically fundamental facts, such as the charge of the electron of the constant that determines how much gravity things produce--that are true anywhere in the universe.

In graphic novel format, introduces the basics of linear algebra through the story of Reiji, who takes on the job of turoring his crush, Misa, in linear algebra, in order to be able to join the Karate Club her big brother captains.

"From modern-day challenges such as balancing a checkbook, following the stock market, buying a home, and figuring out credit card finance charges to appreciating historical developments by Pythagoras, Archimedes, Newton, and other mathematicians, this resource addresses more than 1,000 questions related to mathematics"--Provided by publisher.

Explains the ideas of math gently and clearly, starting with why numbers are helpful, and moving on to such topics as shapes, calculus, fat tails, and infinity.