Mathematics and Optimal Form (Scientific American Library, Number 13)

Description: Well illustrated in black and white and color. ''Combining striking photographs with a compelling text, the authors give us a thoughtful account of the symmetry and regularity of nature's forms and patterns. Although often easily seen, these forms and patterns are not always easily explained. Are there simple universal laws that allow us to comprehend them? Why are celestial bodies spherical rather than square or pyramidal? Nature does not abhor sharp polyhedral structures; we seem them in crystalline formations. Can these jagged structures be explained by the same underlying principle that explain the shape of a perfectly round and symmetric soap bubble? This book examines attempts by scientists and mathematicians throughout history to find answers to these riddles.'' This is the thirteenth volume in the Scientific American Library series. BINDNG/CONDITION: dark blue cloth; owner's name stamp in two places (top edge of the text block and the front endpaper), otherwise a Near Fine book, with a Near Fine dust jacket. references, index. Beige endpapers. 9.5 inches tall by 8.75 wide. 215 pages.…