Polynomials, Dynamics, and Choice: The Price We Pay for Symmetry

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Synopsis
Working out solutions to polynomial equations is a mathematical problem that dates from antiquity. Galois developed a theory in which the obstacle to solving a polynomial equation is an associated collection of symmetries. Obtaining a root requires "breaking" that symmetry. When the degree of an equation is at least five, Galois Theory established that there is no formula for the solutions like those found in lower degree cases. However, this negative result doesn't mean that the practice of equation-solving ends. In a recent breakthrough, Doyle and McMullen devised a solution to the fifth-degree equation that uses geometry, algebra, and dynamics to exploit icosahedral symmetry.Polynomials, Dynamics, and Choice: The Price We Pay for Symmetry is organized in two parts, the first of which develops an account of polynomial symmetry that relies on considerations of algebra and geometry. The second explores beyond polynomials to spaces consisting of choices ranging from mundane decisions to evolutionary algorithms that search for optimal outcomes. The two algorithms in Part I provide frameworks that capture structural issues that can arise in deliberative settings. While decision-making has been approached in mathematical terms, the novelty here is in the use of equation-solving algorithms to illuminate such problems.Features Treats the topic—familiar to many—of solving polynomial equations in a way that’s dramatically different from what they saw in school Accessible to a general audience with limited mathematical background Abundant diagrams and graphics.
Copyright:
2023

Book Details

Book Quality:
Publisher Quality
Book Size:
169 Pages
ISBN-13:
9781000637120
Related ISBNs:
9781003098164, 9781000637083, 9780367564933, 9780367565206
Publisher:
CRC Press
Date of Addition:
Copyrighted By:
Scott Crass
Adult content:
No
Language:
English
Has Image Descriptions:
No
Categories:
Nonfiction, Mathematics and Statistics
Submitted By:
Bookshare Staff
Usage Restrictions:
This is a copyrighted book.

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