Breaking the mold of existing calculus textbooks, Calculus in Context draws students into the subject in two new ways. Part I develops the mathematical preliminaries (including geometry, trigonometry, algebra, and coordinate geometry) within the historical frame of the ancient Greeks and the heliocentric revolution in astronomy. Part II starts with comprehensive and modern treatments of the fundamentals of both differential and integral calculus, then turns to a wide-ranging discussion of applications. Students will learn that core ideas of calculus are central to concepts such as acceleration, force, momentum, torque, inertia, and the properties of lenses. Classroom-tested at Notre Dame University, this textbook is suitable for students of wide-ranging backgrounds because it engages its subject at several levels and offers ample and flexible problem set options for instructors. Parts I and II are both supplemented by expansive Problems and Projects segments. Topics covered in the book include: * the basics of geometry, trigonometry, algebra, and coordinate geometry and the historical, scientific agenda that drove their development* a brief, introductory calculus from the works of Newton and Leibniz* a modern development of the essentials of differential and integral calculus* the analysis of specific, relatable applications, such as the arc of the George Washington Bridge; the dome of the Pantheon; the optics of a telescope; the dynamics of a bullet; the geometry of the pseudosphere; the motion of a planet in orbit; and the momentum of an object in free fall. Calculus in Context is a compelling exploration-for students and instructors alike-of a discipline that is both rich in conceptual beauty and broad in its applied relevance.
A new approach to teaching calculus that uses historical examples and draws on applications from science and engineering.
About the AuthorAlexander J. Hahn is a professor of mathematics at the University of Notre Dame. He is the author of Basic Calculus: From Archimedes to Newton to Its Role in Science and Mathematical Excursions to the World's Great Buildings.
ReviewsThe depth of detail in each application [offered by
Calculus in Context] provides an excellent structure for guiding students through the "why should we care" moments that every calculus class experiences.
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Mathematical Association of AmericaRecommended.
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ChoiceHahn's book is the perfect choice for college and university teachers who want to teach calculus with reference to its origins and applications.
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Zentralblatt MathVery well written in an engaging and enthusiastic style: it is very suitable for first year students, is perhaps not too demanding for students about to enter university, and it is particularly useful to those with more than a passing interest in astronomy. There is plenty to learn for the reader, and the massive text is also a good reference book on calculus. This labour of love from the author more than satisfies the high hopes for a good calculus book... and I highly recommend it.
-Peter Shiu,
Mathematical GazetteBook InformationISBN 9781421422305
Author Alexander J. HahnFormat Hardback
Page Count 712
Imprint Johns Hopkins University PressPublisher Johns Hopkins University Press
Weight(grams) 1610g
Dimensions(mm) 254mm * 178mm * 46mm