Some mathematical problems have significance beyond the ordinary - like Fermat's Theorem or Goldbach's Conjecture - they are the enigmas that define mathematics.

The book The Great Mathematical Puzzles explains why these problems exist, why they matter, what drives mathematicians to incredible lengths to solve them, and where they stand within the framework of mathematics and science as a whole. It contains solved problems - such as the Poincaré Conjecture, which was solved by the eccentric genius Grigori Perelman, who refused academic honors and a million-dollar prize for his work, as well as problems that, like the Riemann Hypothesis, remain enigmatic after centuries.

Stewart is the guide to this mysterious and fascinating world, showing how contemporary mathematicians continuously compete with the challenges set by their predecessors, as the great mathematical problems of the past give way to the new techniques and ideas of the present.

Pages: 352, Publication Year: 0306, Dimensions: 12.8x12.8cm