Everything in mathematics has many meanings — every diagram and every figure, every sum and every equation can be "seen" in different ways, just as every sentence in English or in algebra can be variously read and interpreted. This book explores mathematical topics by pointing out remarkable similarities and taking a fresh look at familiar items. Loaded with thought-provoking facts and surprises, it explores the relationships between mathematics and humor, shows how mathematicians use metaphors to name the nameless and to point to hidden connections, and presents a series of challenging puzzles that offer thought-provoking fun.
You don't have to be a mathematician to appreciate this playful approach to numbers, patterns, graphs, and pictures. Author David Wells focuses on insight and imagination rather than technique, emphasizing the mystery, intrigue, and other pleasurable aspects of mathematics. Hints for the captivating problems and puzzles appear at the end of the book, in addition to complete solutions.

Inhalt

Introduction: Mathematics, Riddles and Humour1. Exploding the Image2. The Hidden Image3. Crystals4. Circles and Ellipses5. Skeleton and Structure6. Taking the Wider View7. Invariants8. Special Cases9. Summing Up10. Metaphors11. One Problem. Many Solutions12. Pictures into Numbers13. A Point of Balance14. Multiple Meanings15. Matching problems16. The Game of Algebra17. Pattern and Illusion18. Clarity, Proof and CertaintyHints for Solutions to ProblemsSolutions to Problems