Knots unravelled. From string to mathematics (Q2883159)

`Knots Unravelled' is a gentle introduction to elementary knot theory, aimed at school children. It introduces the mathematical study of knots and the concept of knot invariants, culminating in the definition of the Jones polynomial.NEWLINENEWLINEFrom the text: `In all but the last chapter of the book the mathematical methods involved are not advanced and should be accessible to any enquiring reader, from around age 12 or 13. The final chapter is more demanding, requiring some familiarity with negative powers and the idea of polynomials.'NEWLINENEWLINEThe main text is divided into short chapters, each introducing one idea. The topics covered are as follows.NEWLINENEWLINEChapter 1: IntroductionNEWLINENEWLINEChapter 2: Knots, knot diagrams, and Reidemeister movesNEWLINENEWLINEChapter 3: Crossing numberNEWLINENEWLINEChapter 4: Mirror images, composite knots, unknotting numberNEWLINENEWLINEChapter 5: TricolourabilityNEWLINENEWLINEChapter 6: LinksNEWLINENEWLINEChapter 7: The Jones polynomialNEWLINENEWLINEAfter each chapter follows an `interlude', introducing a specific knot or family of knots.NEWLINENEWLINEThroughout the book there are a number of `tasks' and `activities', designed to develop understanding of the material. Several of these are practical in nature. From the text: `For this book you need a piece of rope. Make sure it is long enough and thick enough, so that it is easy to tie knots in it. To bring the ends together it is probably best to use a safety pin'. A piece of string about 50cm in length should be suitable. Thread is probably too thin. In some cases it would be useful to have two or three pieces.NEWLINENEWLINESolutions are included at the end, where applicable. In addition, diagrams are given of all prime knots with at most 8 crossings and links with at most 6 crossings.