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The Math Behind...: Discover the Mathematics of Everyday Events
Contributor(s): Beveridge, Colin (Author)

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 ISBN: 1770859985     ISBN-13: 9781770859982
Publisher: Firefly Books
Retail: $12.48OUR PRICE: $9.11  
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Binding Type: Paperback
Published: October 2017
* Out of Print *
Additional Information
BISAC Categories:
- Mathematics | Probability & Statistics - General
- Mathematics | Applied
Dewey: 510
LCCN: 2017302920
Physical Information: 0.5" H x 7.6" W x 9.2" L (1.20 lbs) 192 pages
Features: Illustrated, Index, Price on Product
Review Citations: Publishers Weekly 12/11/2017
Choice 06/01/2018
 
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc.
Publisher Description:

An entertaining illustrated reference to the role of mathematics in everyday life.

The Math Behind... is a fascinating compilation of everyday events analyzed for their probability of occurring and how those odds are determined using mathematical equations and science. The book examines everything from how predictive text works to why buses come in threes and the likelihood that toast will land butter side down. Accessible and clear explanations, without dumbing down the science, and photographs and diagrams illustrate concepts and aid understanding.

There are six chapters. Here are some of the questions covered:

  • The human condition:
    • Why hipsters look the same What are the chances of you even being born What makes certain songs so catchy Why we find some people more attractive than others

  • Sports and games:
    • The perfect 9-ball break in pool How to play the lottery How to take a free kick The secret behind Michael Jordan's air time Why the house always wins

  • From A to B:
    • The "causeless" traffic jam Just how likely is a plane to crash How long would it take a chicken to cross a road Is it possible to have a car journey with no red lights

  • Rise of the machines:
    • How bitcoins work How easy is it for a hacker to crack your password How does predictive text work How do scam emailers use probability

  • Chance and coincidence:
    • Does repeatedly clicking a mouse make it work any faster The chances of meeting your soulmate The six degrees of Kevin Bacon How illusionists use mathematics

  • And another thing:
    • At what percentage does juice become flavored water How penguins have developed the perfect huddle The amount of G-force on a rollercoaster.

    The Math Behind... is an entertaining, intelligent and different look at the world around us. Readers interested in probability and mathematics (and readers interested in just about anything else) will enjoy learning why their toast landed butter side down and whether they should spend another $5.00 on a lottery ticket.


    Contributor Bio(s): Beveridge, Colin: - Colin Beveridge
     
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