Description
Book SynopsisA clear explanation of the mathematics that underlies comprehension of Rubik's Cube, and how the cube itself can be used to grasp the fundamentals of group theory.
Trade Review"The best book yet written - or likely to be written - on the wonders and the dark, unsolved mysteries of the cube" Martin Gardiner "Frey and Singmaster give a nicely blended discussion of specific algorithms for the cube together with some underlying theoretical concepts from group theory. Thus, cubists will be able to cure their insomnia by reading Chapter 3, and then perhaps satisfy their aroused curiosity about what is really going on by reading further" David M. Goldschmidt, Professor of Mathematics, University of California, Berkeley "Frey and Singmaster masterfully use the Rubik's cube to give a very tangible and tactile feel to the abstract concept of a group ... the book remains the definitive source for cube mathematics and presents an interesting and accessible introduction to group theory." David A. Reimann, in Mathematical Reviews, Issue 2012d
Table of ContentsPreface 1. Introduction 2. A Cubik Orientation 3. Restoring the Cube 4. The What, Why, and How of Cube Movements 5. Improved Restoration Processes 6. The Cube Group and Subgroups 7. Permutation Structures and the Order of Groups 8. Advanced Restoration Methods 9. Epilogue A. A Small Catalogue of Processes B. Solutions to Exercises Index
