Mathematics of Everyday Life - Hardcover

by Alfred S. Posamentier (Author), Christian Spreitzer (Author)

Two experienced math educators help the average reader discover not only the everyday usefulness of math but the fun that comes from mastering the basics of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and more.If you think of mathematics as a series of pointless classroom exercises without much relevance to real life, this book will change your mind. As the authors show, math is deeply embedded in almost every aspect of daily life--from managing your personal finances, making consumer purchases, and sharpening your computational skills, to learning to apply mathematical concepts that will give you a better grasp of both ordinary and extraordinary events and help you better appreciate the world we live in.With some basic geometry under your belt, you'll discover that there is an optimal point on a soccer field from which to shoot a goal. And you'll be more clever with the gears of a bike. If you like to play cards or go to the casino, knowing something about probability will give you an edge. You'll also have an enhanced understanding of the "whispering effect" inside the Capitol rotunda, why a car's headlights are so bright, and even why sewer covers are round.After reading this entertaining and instructive book, you'll come away with a whole new awareness of how elegantly mathematics explains everyday experiences and observations--from present day items to classical art and architecture.

Author Biography

Alfred S. Posamentier has published over sixty books in the area of mathematics and mathematics education, including, most recently, The Joy of Mathematics (with with Robert Geretschlaeger, Charles Li, and Christian Spreitzer) and The Circle: A Mathematical Exploration beyond the Line (with Robert Geretschlaeger). After having been on the faculty of the City College of the City University of New York for forty years, where he was a professor of mathematics education and dean of the School of Education, he subsequently held the same positions at Mercy College, New York, for five years. He was also executive director for internationalization and sponsored programs at Long Island University, New York.

Christian Spreitzer is a coauthor of The Joy of Mathematics (with Alfred Posamentier, Robert Geretschlaeger, and Charles Li). He teaches mathematics and physics at the University College of Teacher Education in Lower Austria and at the University of Vienna. He was educated as a mathematician and a physicist and received his master's degree from the University of Vienna. He has published research articles in peer-reviewed journals on mathematics as well as mathematics education.