Elementary Methods In Number Theory

This basic introduction to number theory is ideal for those with no previous knowledge of the subject. The main topics of divisibility, congruences, and the distribution of prime numbers are covered. Of particular interest is the inclusion of a proof for one of the most famous results in mathematics, the prime number theorem. With many examples and exercises, and only requiring knowledge of a little calculus and algebra, this book will suit individuals with imagination and interest in following a mathematical argument to its conclusion.

This book explains clearly and in detail the basic concepts and methods of calculations of the elementary theory of numbers. It consists of 7 chapters illustrated by numerous examples and exercises. Answers together with some hints to the exercises are given at the end of the book. It may be used as a textbook for undergraduate students.

This book is intended to serve as a one-semester introductory course in number theory. Throughout the book a historical perspective has been adopted and emphasis is given to some of the subject's applied aspects; in particular the field of cryptography is highlighted. At the heart of the book are the major number theoretic accomplishments of Euclid, Fermat, Gauss, Legendre, and Euler, and to fully illustrate the properties of numbers and concepts developed in the text, a wealth of exercises have been included. It is assumed that the reader will have 'pencil in hand' and ready access to a calculator or computer. For students new to number theory, whatever their background, this is a stimulating and entertaining introduction to the subject.

Elementary Number Theory, Gove Effinger, Gary L. Mullen This text is intended to be used as an undergraduate introduction to the theory of numbers. The authors have been immersed in this area of mathematics for many years and hope that this text will inspire students (and instructors) to study, understand, and come to love this truly beautiful subject. Each chapter, after an introduction, develops a new topic clearly broken out in sections which include theoretical material together with numerous examples, each worked out in considerable detail. At the end of each chapter, after a summary of the topic, there are a number of solved problems, also worked out in detail, followed by a set of supplementary problems. These latter problems give students a chance to test their own understanding of the material; solutions to some but not all of them complete the chapter. The first eight chapters discuss some standard material in elementary number theory. The remaining chapters discuss topics which might be considered a bit more advanced. The text closes with a chapter on Open Problems in Number Theory. Students (and of course instructors) are strongly encouraged to study this chapter carefully and fully realize that not all mathematical issues and problems have been resolved! There is still much to be learned and many questions to be answered in mathematics in general and in number theory in particular.

This practical and versatile text evolved from the author’s years of teaching experience and the input of his students. Vanden Eynden strives to alleviate the anxiety that many students experience when approaching any proof-oriented area of mathematics, including number theory. His informal yet straightforward writing style explains the ideas behind the process of proof construction, showing that mathematicians develop theorems and proofs from trial and error and evolutionary improvement, not spontaneous insight. Furthermore, the book includes more computational problems than most other number theory texts to build students’ familiarity and confidence with the theory behind the material. The author has devised the content, organization, and writing style so that information is accessible, students can gain self-confidence with respect to mathematics, and the book can be used in a wide range of courses—from those that emphasize history and type A problems to those that are proof oriented.

This superb text introduces number theory to readers with limited formal mathematical training. Intended for use in freshman- and sophomore-level courses in arts and science curricula, in teacher-training programs, and in enrichment programs for high-school students, it is filled with simple problems to stimulate readers' interest, challenge their abilities and increase mathematical strength. Contents: I. Introduction II. The Euclidean Algorithm and Its Consequences III. Congruences IV. The Powers of an Integer Modulo m V. Continued Fractions VI. The Gaussian Integers VII. Diophantine Equations Requiring only a sound background in high-school mathematics, this work offers the student an excellent introduction to a branch of mathematics that has been a strong influence in the development of higher pure mathematics, both in stimulating the creation of powerful general methods in the course of solving special problems (such as Fermat conjecture and the prime number theorem) and as a source of ideas and inspiration comparable to geometry and the mathematics of physical phenomena.

An introductory guide to elementary number theory for advanced undergraduates and graduates.