Includes bibliographical references (pages 255-262) and index.
Contents
Alexander polynomial: knot theory -- Hopf bifurcation theorem: dynamical system theory -- Kalman filter: control theory -- Hahn-Banach theorem: functional analysis -- Shannon coding theorem: information theory.
Summary
"How did the classic tale of Alexander the Great influence the principal problem facing knot theorists today? What effect did the exalted Kalman filter have on space travel? How did the Shannon Coding Theory make mapping human DNA possible? In this follow-up to Five Golden Rules, popular science author John Casti treats us to another quintet of theories to answer these and other questions." "Casti reveals the origins of some of the most monumental mathematical discoveries of the last century - and sheds light on how these revolutionary ideas have reshaped our lives."--Jacket.
