Fundamentals of Number Theory

<p>This excellent textbook introduces the basics of number theory incorporating the language of abstract algebra. A knowledge of such algebraic concepts as group ring field and domain is not assumed however; all terms are defined and examples are given -- making the book self-contained in this respect.<br>The author begins with an introductory chapter on number theory and its early history. Subsequent chapters deal with unique factorization and the GCD quadratic residues number-theoretic functions and the distribution of primes sums of squares quadratic equations and quadratic fields diophantine approximation and more. Included are discussions of topics not always found in introductory texts: factorization and primality of large integers <i>p</i>-adic numbers algebraic number fields Brun's theorem on twin primes and the transcendence of <i>e</i> to mention a few.<br>Readers will find a substantial number of well-chosen problems along with many notes and bibliographical references selected for readability and relevance. Five helpful appendixes -- containing such study aids as a factor table computer-plotted graphs a table of indices the Greek alphabet and a list of symbols -- and a bibliography round out this well-written text which is directed toward undergraduate majors and beginning graduate students in mathematics. No post-calculus prerequisite is assumed. 1977 edition.</p>