A Concrete Approach to Abstract Algebra by W. W. Sawyer

A Concrete Approach to Abstract Algebra

W. W. Sawyer

Dover Publications · Print & ebook · August 15, 2018

A Mathematics pick for readers exploring A Concrete Approach to Abstract Algebra.

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Who it’s for
Simple arithmetic and polynomials lead toward abstract algebra, with exercises throughout and solutions at the end.
Themes
Foundations of abstract algebra, Polynomials, fields, and vector spaces, Euclidean angle-trisection proof
Pacing
Steady

About this book

Brief, clear, and well written, this introduction to abstract algebra bridges the gap between the solid ground of traditional algebra and the abstract territory of modern algebra. The only prerequisite is high school–level algebra. Author W. W. Sawyer begins with a very basic viewpoint of abstract algebra, using simple arithmetic and elementary algebra.

Continue reading

He then proceeds to arithmetic and polynomials, slowly progressing to more complex matters: finite arithmetic, an analogy between integers and polynomials, an application of the analogy, extending fields, and linear dependence and vector spaces. Additional topics include algebraic calculations with vectors, vectors over a field, and fields regarded as vector spaces. The final chapter proves that angles cannot be trisected by Euclidean means, using a proof that shows how modern algebraic concepts can be used to solve an ancient problem. Exercises appear throughout the book, with complete solutions at the end.

From Polynomials to Fields

Simple arithmetic and polynomials lead toward abstract algebra, with exercises throughout and solutions at the end.

Come here for

  • A gradual path from elementary algebra to fields and vector spaces
  • The angle-trisection proof using modern algebra

Expect

  • Finite arithmetic and analogies between integers and polynomials
  • Fields, vector spaces, and algebraic calculations with vectors

Where it sits

Abstract Algebra100%
Linear Algebra43%

Percentages are BookFrontier’s reading of the book.

Publisher categories

  • Abstract Algebra
Authors
W. W. Sawyer
Publisher
Dover Publications
Published
August 15, 2018
Format
Print & ebook
Theme
Foundations of abstract algebra · Polynomials, fields, and vector spaces · Euclidean angle-trisection proof
Reading lane
Abstract Algebra