This book traces a remarkable path of mathematical connections through seemingly disparate topics. Frustrations with a 1940's electro-mechanical computer at a premier research laboratory begin this story. Subsequent mathematical methods of encoding messages to ensure correctness when transmitted over noisy channels lead to discoveries of extremely efficient lattice packings of equal-radius balls, especially in 24-dimensional space. In turn, this highly symmetric lattice, with each point neighboring exactly 196,560 other ...
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This book traces a remarkable path of mathematical connections through seemingly disparate topics. Frustrations with a 1940's electro-mechanical computer at a premier research laboratory begin this story. Subsequent mathematical methods of encoding messages to ensure correctness when transmitted over noisy channels lead to discoveries of extremely efficient lattice packings of equal-radius balls, especially in 24-dimensional space. In turn, this highly symmetric lattice, with each point neighboring exactly 196,560 other points, suggested the possible presence of new simple groups as groups of symmetries. Indeed, new groups were found and are now part of the ""Enormous Theorem""--the classification of all simple groups whose entire proof runs some 10,000+ pages--and these connections, along with the fascinating history and the proof of the simplicity of one of those ""sporatic"" simple groups, are presented at an undergraduate mathematical level.
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Publisher:
Mathematical Association of America (MAA)
Published:
1983
Language:
English
Alibris ID:
18112419299
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Seller's Description:
Near Fine with no dustjacket. 0883850230. With diagrams. Former owner's name on front pastedown. Otherwise light shelfwear only.; 12mo; xvi, 228 pages.
Publisher:
Mathematical Association of America (MAA)
Published:
1984
Language:
English
Alibris ID:
18124813404
Shipping Options:
Standard Shipping: $4.61
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
228 pp., hardcover, very good. -If you are reading this, this item is actually (physically) in our stock and ready for shipment once ordered. We are not bookjackers. Buyer is responsible for any additional duties, taxes, or fees required by recipient's country.
