How To Derive A Formula - Volume 1: Basic Analytical Skills And Methods For Physical Scientists

Artificial intelligence may solve all problems, but scientific formulae are still important for understanding the laws of nature. How to Derive a Formula is a book that aims to engage students in learning mathematics by presenting methods in simple terms and emphasizing skills rather than technical knowledge. It uses relevant examples from across the physical sciences and includes historical facts and humour to complement the material.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 704 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2020
Publisher: World Scientific Europe Ltd

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize various fields, including science and mathematics. While AI algorithms can perform complex calculations and analyze vast amounts of data, they may not be able to replace the human brain's ability to formulate scientific formulas. Scientific formulas are not just a collection of numbers and symbols; they are a way of describing and understanding the laws of nature. Formulating a formula requires a deep understanding of the underlying principles, as well as the ability to apply logical reasoning and mathematical techniques. For example, to derive the formula for the gravitational force between two objects, scientists must understand the principles of classical mechanics, including Newton's laws of motion and gravity. They must also be able to apply mathematical equations and inequalities to solve the problem. While AI algorithms can perform these calculations efficiently, they may not be able to understand the underlying principles or apply the same level of logical reasoning that humans do. This is why the authors of this book argue that there is still a vital role in formulating scientific formulas to make sense of the laws of nature. To derive a formula, one needs to follow a series of steps, including identifying the problem, defining the variables, constructing an equation, and analyzing the solution. Last, but not least, check that the result is correct, primarily through the analysis of limiting cases. The book is about unravelling this machinery. Mathematics is the queen of all sciences, but students encounter many obstacles in learning the subject. Familiarization with the proofs of hundreds of theorems, mysterious symbols, and technical routines for which the usefulness is not obvious upfront can be daunting. Those interested in the physical sciences may lose motivation, not seeing the wood for the trees. How to Derive a Formula is an attempt to engage these learners, presenting mathematical methods in simple terms, with more of an emphasis on skills as opposed to technical knowledge. Based on intuition and common sense rather than mathematical rigor, the book teaches students from scratch using pertinent examples, many taken across the physical sciences. This book provides an interesting new perspective of what a mathematics textbook could be, including historical facts and humor to complement the material. While AI has the potential to transform science and mathematics, it is important to recognize that human intelligence and creativity will always play a critical role in developing new theories and understanding the laws of nature.

Weight: 796g
Dimension: 153 x 227 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786346445