Polyhedra - Softcover

Peter R. Cromwell

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521664055 ISBN 13: 9780521664059

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1999

Synopsis

Polyhedra have cropped up in many different guises throughout recorded history. Recently, polyhedra and their symmetries have been cast in a new light by combinatorics and group theory. This unique text comprehensively documents the many and varied ways that polyhedra have come to the fore throughout the development of mathematics. The author strikes a balance between covering the historical development of the theory surrounding polyhedra and rigorous treatment of the mathematics involved. Attractively illustrated--including 16 color plates--Polyhedra elucidates ideas that have proven difficult to grasp. Mathematicians, as well as historians of mathematics, will find this book fascinating.

About this title

Book Description

Polyhedra have cropped up in many different guises throughout recorded history. In modern times, polyhedra and their symmetries have been cast in a new light by combinatorics an d group theory. This book comprehensively documents the many and varied ways that polyhedra have come to the fore throughout the development of mathematics. The author strikes a balance between covering the historical development of the theory surrounding polyhedra, and presenting a rigorous treatment of the mathematics involved. It is attractively illustrated with dozens of diagrams to illustrate ideas that might otherwise prove difficult to grasp. Historians of mathematics, as well as those more interested in the mathematics itself, will find this unique book fascinating.

Review

"The major virtue of the book is that the author has managed to find many interesting paths in mathematics not often traveled." Notices of the AMS

This remarkable book goes far beyond the superficial, providing a solid and fascinating account of the history and mathematics of polyhedra... It is likely to become the classic book on the topic. ...a wonderful book worthy of many readings. It belongs in every university library, and on most mathematicians' book shelves." MAA Online

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1999
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521664055
• ISBN 13: 9780521664059
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 476