Mathematics as Problem Solving

by Alexander Soifer

Overview

Various elementary techniques for solving problems in algebra, geometry, and combinatorics are explored in this second edition of Mathematics as Problem Solving. Each new chapter builds on the previous one, allowing the reader to uncover new methods for using logic to solve problems. Topics are presented in self-contained chapters, with classical solutions as well as Soifer's own discoveries. With roughly 200 different problems, the reader is challenged to approach problems from different angles.

Mathematics as Problem Solving is aimed at students from high school through undergraduate levels and beyond, educators, and the general reader interested in the methods of mathematical problem solving.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780387746463
Publisher:	Springer New York
Publication date:	04/28/2009
Edition description:	2nd ed. 2009
Pages:	106
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 9.10(h) x 0.40(d)

Table of Contents

Language and Some Celebrated Ideas.- Numbers.- Algebra.- Geometry.- Combinatorial Problems.- Chess 7 × 7.- Farewell to the Reader.

Editorial Reviews

From the reviews:

“How does one describe a mathematician? I know no better way than to read this delightful book. For Alexander Soifer has not just written another book about mathematics. He has opened up his heart—-and in the process his great love for mathematics, his creative ability, his respect for and skill in teaching, his joy in living all shine through. I invite you to come meet a dear friend and share his exhilaration and insight.”  —- PHILIP L. ENGEL

From the reviews of the second edition:

“...this book can be the portal that leads the reader into the world of mathematics.”
  —- Cristinel Mortici (Targoviste)ür Mathematik, Zentralblatt f

“This is a very readable collection of interesting problems of varying levels of difficulty. … It is so delightfully written that anyone who simply likes working on challenging problems could read it independently. … More than 150 problems are included in this collection. … helpful for an instructor who is looking for ways of integrating problem solving into a particular course, and might be useful for coaching a mathematics competition team. This … book would be a good resource for an instructor or coach." —-Sr. Barbara E. Reynolds, The Mathematical Association of America

“The author grew up in the problem solving atmosphere in Moscow and collected about 200 problems from his experience in mathematical clubs, schools, and Olympiads. … Many problems … are discussed in detail and in a way that can be followed easily. So the book can also be recommended to young students.” (H. Humenberger, Monatshefte für Mathematik, Vol. 159 (1-2), January, 2010)

“Clearly attractiveness of problems and beauty of solution have been major criteria in the selection for this book. The author devised many of the problems, and his enthusiasm is evident. … I am confident that readers will find this book to be a valuable showcase for ‘what (pure) mathematics is really like’.” (John Baylis, The Mathematical Gazette, Vol. 95 (532), March, 2011)

From the Publisher