This textbook originates from a course taught by the late Ken Ireland in 1972. Designed to explore the theoretical underpinnings of undergraduate mathematics, the course focused on interrelationships and hands-on experience. Readers of this textbook will be taken on a modern rendering of Ireland's path of discovery, consisting of excursions into number theory, algebra, and analysis. Replete with surprising connections, deep insights, and brilliantly curated invitations to try problems at just the right moment, this journey weaves a rich body of knowledge that is ideal for those going on to study or teach mathematics.
A pool of 200 'Dialing In' problems opens the book, providing fuel for active enquiry throughout a course. The following chapters develop theory to illuminate the observations and roadblocks encountered in the problems, situating them in the broader mathematical landscape. Topics cover polygons and modular arithmetic; the fundamental theorems of arithmetic and algebra; irrational, algebraic and transcendental numbers; and Fourier series and Gauss sums. A lively accompaniment of examples, exercises, historical anecdotes, and asides adds motivation and context to the theory. Return trips to the Dialing In problems are encouraged, offering opportunities to put theory into practice and make lasting connections along the way.
Excursions in Number Theory, Algebra, and Analysis invites readers on a journey as important as the destination. Suitable for a senior capstone, professional development for practicing teachers, or independent reading, this textbook offers insights and skills valuable to math majors and high school teachers alike. A background in real analysis and abstract algebra is assumed, though the most important prerequisite is a willingness to put pen to paper and do some mathematics.
"It was my good luck then to receive an invitation to review Excursions in Number Theory, Algebra, and Analysis. The book is a remarkable tribute to the legacy of Kenneth Ireland. ? it is important to acknowledge that anyone wishing to center a course on this text will face significant challenges. Given all that is on offer here, these challenges would seem well worth taking on!" (Paul Pollack, The Mathematical Intelligencer, July 6, 2024)
"This book is very well motivated and well organized. As its title indicates, it collects topics from algebra and analysis, answering some questions from number theory. This book can be considered as a text as well, for an undergraduate course ... ." (Mehdi Hassani, zbMATH 1529.11001, 2024)
"Rather than being a book that one reads from cover to cover, Excursions is a curated collection problems followed by expository material aimed at providing background material useful for solving these problems. I imagine it would be a great experience to have a course taught out of this book. The second author clearly enjoyed the experience of studying this material under the guidance of the first author and wanted to make that experience available to others." (John D. Cook, MAA Reviews, June 17, 2023)
