A Most Elegant Equation: Euler's Formula and the Beauty of Mathematics

An award-winning science writer introduces us to mathematics using the extraordinary equation that unites five of mathematics' most important numbers

Bertrand Russell wrote that mathematics can exalt as surely as poetry. This is especially true of one equation: ei(pi) + 1 = 0, the brainchild of Leonhard Euler, the Mozart of mathematics. More than two centuries after Euler's death, it is still regarded as a conceptual diamond of unsurpassed beauty. Called Euler's identity or God's equation, it includes just five numbers but represents an astonishing revelation of hidden connections. It ties together everything from basic arithmetic to compound interest, the circumference of a circle, trigonometry, calculus, and even infinity. In David Stipp's hands, Euler's identity formula becomes a contemplative stroll through the glories of mathematics. The result is an ode to this magical field.

Author: David Stipp
Publisher: Basic Books
Published: 11/07/2017
Pages: 240
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.79lbs
Size: 8.30h x 5.60w x 1.00d
ISBN13: 9780465093779
ISBN10: 0465093779
BISAC Categories:
- Mathematics | History & Philosophy
- Mathematics | Calculus
- Mathematics | Algebra | Elementary

About the Author
David Stipp is an award-winning science writer whose work has appeared in Scientific American, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Science, and other publications. The author of The Youth Pill, he lives in Boston, Massachusetts.