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Single Digits

In Praise of Small Numbers
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( 56 ratings, 13 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Single Digits by Marc Chamberland offers a captivating journey through the world of the numbers one to nine. The book delves into their history, applications, and intriguing links to diverse mathematical fields such as number theory, geometry, chaos theory, numerical analysis, and mathematical physics. Readers will explore fascinating questions like why eight perfect shuffles restore a deck to its original order and the mathematical basis behind the so-called "six degrees of separation." With short, independent sections, the book makes complex concepts like the Ham Sandwich Theorem and the Pizza Theorem accessible and engaging.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$5499
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book is ideal for high school and university students, professional mathematicians, and anyone fascinated by numerical patterns and mathematical concepts. Its approachable style also makes it suitable for enthusiasts eager to deepen their appreciation of the everyday numbers one through nine.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

In Single Digits, Marc Chamberland takes readers on a fascinating exploration of small numbers, from one to nine, looking at their history, applications, and connections to various areas of mathematics, including number theory, geometry, chaos theory, numerical analysis, and mathematical physics. For instance, why do eight perfect card shuffles lea

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

In Single Digits, Marc Chamberland takes readers on a fascinating exploration of small numbers, from one to nine, looking at their history, applications, and connections to various areas of mathematics, including number theory, geometry, chaos theory, numerical analysis, and mathematical physics.

For instance, why do eight perfect card shuffles leave a standard deck of cards unchanged? And, are there really "six degrees of separation" between all pairs of people? Chamberland explores these questions and covers vast numerical territory, such as illustrating the ways that the number three connects to chaos theory, the number of guards needed to protect an art gallery, problematic election results, and so much more.

The book's short sections can be read independently and digested in bite-sized chunks--especially good for learning about the Ham Sandwich Theorem and the Pizza Theorem. Appealing to high school and college students, professional mathematicians, and those mesmerised by patterns, this book shows that single digits offer a plethora of possibilities that readers can count on.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Publishers Weekly praises the book as "fascinating" with explanations that keep readers eager for more. The Math Tango blog finds it a splendid addition for both amateurs and professionals, while Alexander Bogomolny calls it "outright delightful" and thought-provoking. Booklist describes it as "a bracing mathematical adventure," and MAA Reviews highlights its consistent entertainment and quality writing. Overall, critics commend its ability to intrigue and educate across a wide audience.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780691175690

Publisher: Princeton University Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 30 May 2017

Country: United States

Imprint: Princeton University Press

Illustration: 24 halftones. 93 line illus. 20 tables.

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education

DIMENSIONS

Width: 152.0mm

Height: 235.0mm

Weight: 340g

Pages: 240

About the Author

Marc Chamberland is professor of mathematics and natural sciences at Grinnell College. He is the creator of the YouTube channel Tipping Point Math, which strives to make mathematics accessible to everyone.

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