colemangov0

This text for undergraduates presents an introduction to the fundamental ideas of algebraic numbers using the proof of Fermat's Last Theorem a 300-year-old conjecture that had until recently eluded mathematicians as the main example. The volume discusses all of the elements necessary for understanding the proof, including Euclidean imaginary fields and Minkowski's theorem on convex sets relative to a lattice. Stewart and Tall (both mathematics, U. of Warwick, UK) conclude with a survey of new developments and unsolved problems relating to the Theorem. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)