The Mathematics of Everyday Life

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.

Table of Contents

CHAPTER 1: HISTORICAL HIGH POINTS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF MATHEMATICAL APPLICATIONS
CHAPTER 2: MATHEMATICS IN OUR EVERYDAY LIVES—ARITHMETIC SHORTCUTS AND THINKING MATHEMATICALLY
CHAPTER 3: MATHEMATICAL APPEARANCES AND APPLICATIONS IN EVERYDAY-LIFE PROBLEMS
CHAPTER 4: PROBABILITY, GAMES, AND GAMBLING
CHAPTER 5: SPORTS AND GAMES—EXPLAINED MATHEMATICALLY
CHAPTER 6: THE WORLD AND ITS NATURE
CHAPTER 7: APPEARANCES OF MATHEMATICS IN ART AND ARCHITECTURE
CHAPTER 8: THE TECHNOLOGY AROUND US—FROM A MATHEMATICAL PERSPECTIVE