Magic Squares

by W.W. Rouse Ball

Magic Squares is a comprehensive book written by W. W. Rouse Ball, which explores the fascinating world of magic squares. This mathematical concept has been around for centuries and involves arranging numbers in a square grid so that the sum of each row, column, and diagonal is the same. The book is divided into two parts. The first part provides a historical overview of magic squares, tracing their origins from ancient China to the present day. It also includes a detailed analysis of the different types of magic squares, such as odd, even, and bordered magic squares. The second part of the book delves deeper into the mathematical theory behind magic squares. It covers topics such as the construction of magic squares, the use of algebraic equations to solve them, and the relationship between magic squares and other mathematical concepts like permutations and combinations. Throughout the book, Ball uses clear and concise language to explain complex mathematical concepts, making it accessible to readers of all levels. The book also includes numerous examples and illustrations to help readers understand the concepts and apply them to real-world problems. Overall, Magic Squares is an engaging and informative book that is sure to appeal to anyone interested in mathematics, puzzles, or history.THIS 30 PAGE ARTICLE WAS EXTRACTED FROM THE Mathematical Recreations and Essays, by W. W. Rouse Ball. To purchase the entire book, please order ISBN 1417921269.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

32 pages, Paperback

Published September 10, 2010

About the author

Walter William Rouse Ball, known as W. W. Rouse Ball (14 August 1850 – 4 April 1925), was a British mathematician, lawyer, and fellow at Trinity College, Cambridge from 1878 to 1905. He was also a keen amateur magician, and the founding president of the Cambridge Pentacle Club in 1919, one of the world's oldest magic societies.

Rouse Ball was educated at University College School, he entered Trinity College, Cambridge in 1870, where he became a scholar and the first winner of Smith's Prize. He gained his BA in 1874 as second Wrangler and then became a Fellow of Trinity in 1875, which he remained for the rest of his life.

He is buried at the Parish of the Ascension Burial Ground in Cambridge, and is commemorated in the naming of a small pavilion situated on Jesus Green in Cambridge. The Rouse Ball Professorship of Mathematics and the Rouse Ball Professorship at English Law, both held at Cambridge, were created in 1927 from a bequest by Rouse Ball.