Ecuatia care n-a putut fi rezolvata. Matematicieni de geniu rezolva limbajul simetriilor

Mario Livio shows how an unsolved algebra problem led to group theory. This branch of maths deals with symmetry. For centuries, people had tried to solve the quintic equation. Each attempt had failed. Niels Henrik Abel of Norway showed why the usual methods could not work. Évariste Galois of France did so too.

The book blends the history of maths with both men’s lives. It explains the ideas in clear terms for readers new to the field. Livio links symmetry to Bach’s music and the forces of nature. He also links it to the Rubik’s cube and the choice of a partner. He shows how maths helps explain art, physics and daily life.