Curves for the Mathematically Curious: An Anthology of the Unpredictable, Historical, Beautiful, and Romantic, Havil Julian

Ten amazing curves personally selected by one of todays bestselling math writers

Curves for the Mathematically Curious is an enticing collection of ten mathematical curves, selected by Julian Havil for their significance, mathematical interest, and because many are downright beautiful. Each chapter of this anthology gives an account of the history and definition of each curve, providing a glimpse into the elegant and often surprising mathematics involved in their creation and evolution. In telling the ten stories, Havil visits many mathematicians and other innovators, some whose fame has withstood the passing of years, others who have blended into comparative obscurity. As well as the numerous mathematicians, you will meet in particular Pierre B zier, whose name is perpetuated though his ubiquitous and eponymous curves, and Adolphe Quetelet, who trumpeted the ubiquity of the Normal curve but whose name now hides behind the modern body mass index. These and other ingenious thinkers contributed to the challenges, incongruities, and insights to be found in this study of these remarkable curves--and now you can share in this adventure.

Curves for the Mathematically Curious is a rigorous and enriching mathematical experience for anyone interested in curves, and the book is designed so that the reader who chooses can follow the details with pencil and paper. Every curve has a story worthy of telling. This compendium tells the stories of ten remarkable curves personally selected by one of todays best-loved writers of popular mathematics.