Hilbert's Tenth Problem : An Introduction to Logic, Number Theory, and Computability

M. Ram Murty

ISBN 10: 1470443996 / ISBN 13: 9781470443993

Published by American Mathematical Society Jun 2019, 2019

About this Item

Neuware.

Seller Inventory # 9781470443993

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Hilbert's Tenth Problem : An Introduction to Logic, Number Theory, and Computability
• Publisher: American Mathematical Society Jun 2019
• Publication Date: 2019
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1470443996
• ISBN 13: 9781470443993
• Binding: Taschenbuch
• Condition: Neu

About this title

Synopsis

Hilbert's tenth problem is one of 23 problems proposed by David Hilbert in 1900 at the International Congress of Mathematicians in Paris. These problems gave focus for the exponential development of mathematical thought over the following century. The tenth problem asked for a general algorithm to determine if a given Diophantine equation has a solution in integers. It was finally resolved in a series of papers written by Julia Robinson, Martin Davis, Hilary Putnam, and finally Yuri Matiyasevich in 1970. They showed that no such algorithm exists. This book is an exposition of this remarkable achievement. Often, the solution to a famous problem involves formidable background. Surprisingly, the solution of Hilbert's tenth problem does not. What is needed is only some elementary number theory and rudimentary logic. In this book, the authors present the complete proof along with the romantic history that goes with it. Along the way, the reader is introduced to Cantor's transfinite numbers, axiomatic set theory, Turing machines, and Gödel's incompleteness theorems. Copious exercises are included at the end of each chapter to guide the student gently on this ascent. For the advanced student, the final chapter highlights recent developments and suggests future directions. The book is suitable for undergraduates and graduate students. It is essentially self-contained.

About the Author

M. Ram Murty: Queen s University, Kingston, ON, Canada, Brandon Fodden: Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada