Looking for a good analytic geometry book

In summary, the conversation discusses the interest in studying mathematical concepts such as curves and analytic geometry, which seem to be overlooked in modern education. The individual is looking for a book that delves into these topics in detail without the need for advanced mathematics. Suggestions are made for books that may cover these topics, including "College Algebra And Trigonometry" and "Geometry" by Bass et. al.
  • #1
Ragnarok7
50
0
I am always entranced when I read in calculus books about various curves like lemniscates, cardioids, the spiral of Archimedes, the witch of Agnesi, and similar things. But in calculus books they are generally just little asides or relegated to the exercises. Presumably there is more to analytic geometry than just these things, but I have trouble finding anything above the level of basic middle/high school coordinate geometry but below the level of an advanced undergraduate text requiring modern algebra and analysis and whatnot.

Does anyone know of a good book covering such topics and other such interesting things? It seems like in previous centuries these things were studied a lot more, and now no one is very interested at the elementary level. I would like to study plane and solid Euclidean geometry analytically (i.e. not through constructions) on its own, and not wrapped up with some more important subject, and not as only a special case of some very general and complicated theory. I.e., I would like what is taught in high schools/college as analytic geometry, but in much more detail. Does such a thing exist?

Thank you for any suggestions/corrections of my misconceptions!
 
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  • #2
Maybe, for the Analytic Geometry and some (slightly unusual ) curves graphs. My own copy is now physically ruined and so checking the instructive text inside is nearly impossible, but there was a book from about 1977, College Algebra And Trigonometry, second edition, by Bryant, Karush, Nower, & Saltz, ISBN 0-87620-171-0. I would ordinarily recommend other, and probably better-known Pre-Calculus books but which may not exactly have the content you asked about. (Some authors to watch for are Larson & Hostetler; and Aufman, Barker, & Nation).

I wish I knew better what to tell you about Solid Geometry. Some GOOD Geometry books (like for community colleges and high schools) will give some instruction just as way to make their instruction more thorough; but maybe not a fully as you are asking. The Prentiss-Hall book by Bass et. al. called Geometry (from about year 2003) was an excellent book.

(Yours was an old, unanswered question from year 2014. Maybe others are interested in the same question today.)
 

1. What is analytic geometry?

Analytic geometry is a branch of mathematics that combines algebra and geometry to study geometric shapes and their properties using coordinates and equations.

2. Why is it important to learn analytic geometry?

Analytic geometry is important because it provides a way to represent and analyze geometric figures in a precise and systematic manner. It is the foundation for many other mathematical concepts and is widely used in fields such as physics, engineering, and computer science.

3. What are some key topics covered in a good analytic geometry book?

A good analytic geometry book will cover topics such as points, lines, circles, conic sections, vectors, matrices, and transformations. It will also include applications of analytic geometry, such as finding the equation of a line or using matrices to solve systems of equations.

4. How do I know if a book is a good resource for learning analytic geometry?

A good analytic geometry book should have clear explanations, plenty of examples and practice problems, and a logical progression of concepts. It should also have positive reviews and recommendations from other readers or educators.

5. Are there any online resources for learning analytic geometry?

Yes, there are many online resources for learning analytic geometry, such as video tutorials, interactive practice problems, and online courses. Some websites also offer free eBooks or downloadable worksheets for self-study. It's important to do some research and choose a reputable source for online learning.

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