Adventures in Group Theory: Rubik's Cube, Merlin's Machine, and Other Mathematical Toys

by David Joyner

Group theory deals with symmetry, in the most abstract form possible. It is a core part of the undergraduate math curriculum, and forms part of the training of theoretical physicists and chemical crystallographers. Group theory has tended to be very dry--until now. David Joyner uses mathematical toys (primarily the Rubik's Cube and its more modern cousins, the Megaminx, the Pyraminx, and so on) as well as other mathematical examples (e.g., bell ringing) to breathe new life into a time-honored subject. "Why," asks the author, "should two such different topics, mechanical puzzles and abstract group theory, be related? This book takes the reader on an intellectual trip to answer this curiosity." Adventures in Group Theory will not only appeal to all math enthusiasts and interested general readers but will also find use in the classroom as a wonderful supplementary text in any abstract algebra or group theory course.

Genres: Mathematics, Nonfiction, Reference

280 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Ami Iida · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's the story of group theory rather than Rubik cube and 15 puzzle.
You can learn about group theory,determinant,topology etc........

[Andrew · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting concept for sure. I had actually been hunting for a mathematical description of the Rubik's Cube (being both a cuber and a geek) and this is the first real one I found.

Sadly, the book is terribly incomplete. Joyner fails time and time again to explain crucial information, particularly with his algebra forumlae, and also frequently tells the reader to go read someone else's work for an explanation that probably could've been done himself in a paragraph or two.

[Andrea Frazier · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm looking for someone who's used this book in a second semester (or second-quarter) algebra course.

[Andrea Frazier · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'd be interested in hearing from someone who used this in a second course in abstract algebra.

[Mattias Lundell · Rating 2 out of 5]

Some parts * other parts *****