Joy Of X: How Algebra Shapes Your Daily Life

Understand algebra and all other branches of mathematics and arithmetic will suddenly open up in front of you. The Joy of X is a collection of problems - some with practical applications, others designed as purely theoretical puzzles - designed to explain the basic elements of algebra to everyone, no matter what their level of mathematical ability. Although it can be read from cover to cover, The Joy of X can also be read on a potluck basis, picking a page or problem at random. Its easy-to-follow format guides the reader through this fascinating subject, with a combination of exercises, profiles and background information. - Discover what a formula really is, how to calculate mortgage interest, plan a journey time, or simply enjoy the theory and history of algebra - Combines background information with absorbing problems and puzzles - Explores the lives and discoveries of key mathematicians from the history of algebra * All the stimulation of this fascinating subject - with none of the pain of school! * Easy-to-follow format that gently guides, explains and entertains * Relevant to daily life, yet also far-reaching and absorbing * The perfect gift for that hard-to-buy-for man in your life