Joy of X: How Algebra Shapes Your Daily Life

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 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.