The Fabulous Fibonacci Numbers

Viac o knihe

The Fibonacci sequence, starting with two ones and continuing with each number being the sum of the two preceding ones (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, etc.), is a captivating pattern in mathematics. This sequence is not merely a curiosity; it appears in various natural structures, such as the arrangement of whorls on pinecones and the branching of certain plant stems, highlighting the profound mathematical foundation of the natural world. Two experienced math educators guide readers through the intriguing implications of Fibonacci numbers, beginning with the history of an Italian mathematician who popularized Arabic numerals in the West. They illustrate, with diagrams, the astonishing links between Fibonacci numbers and natural forms like pineapples, sunflowers, and daisies. The authors also explore the sequence's presence in art, architecture, the stock market, and other cultural areas, along with its derivative, the "golden ratio." In mathematics, they showcase its vast applications in probability, number theory, geometry, algebra, and Pascal's triangle. This engaging book is accessible to even the most math-averse readers, allowing them to appreciate the elegance of mathematics and its remarkable relevance in both natural and cultural contexts.