- 1. The Man Who Loved Only Numbers by Paul Hoffman is a captivating biography that delves into the life of the brilliant mathematician Paul Erdős, who is renowned for his contributions to number theory and his eccentric lifestyle. The book narrates Erdős's journey from his early years in Hungary, where he displayed prodigious mathematical abilities, to his lifelong quest for mathematical truths that led him to travel extensively, often living out of a suitcase and relying on the hospitality of fellow mathematicians. Hoffman's narrative paints a vivid picture of Erdős’s quirky personality, his deep friendships within the mathematical community, and his unique approach to collaboration, as he often worked with mathematicians around the world in an effort to solve problems that tantalized him. The biography also reflects on the nature of mathematical creativity, the beauty of numbers, and the profound impact of Erdős’s work on modern mathematics, making it a delightful read for both mathematical enthusiasts and general readers alike, drawing them into the enchanting world of numbers and the remarkable life of a man who viewed them as his closest companions.
Who is the main subject of 'The Man Who Loved Only Numbers'?
A) Paul Erdős
B) Albert Einstein
C) Isaac Newton
D) Carl Friedrich Gauss
- 2. Which term is often associated with Erdős due to his collaborative nature?
A) Collaboration index
B) Erdős number
C) Mathematical coefficient
D) Partnership ratio
- 3. What was a common theme in Erdős’s life?
A) Political activism.
B) Scientific discovery in biology.
C) Desire for wealth.
D) Pursuit of pure mathematical truth.
- 4. What did Erdős consider as 'God' in his view of mathematics?
A) The Universe
B) His family
C) The Book of Mathematics
D) Philosophy
- 5. Which country did Erdős spend much of his life in?
A) Germany
B) United States
C) France
D) Hungary
- 6. What was the main focus of Erdős's research?
A) Astronomy
B) Chemistry
C) Number theory
D) Engineering
- 7. When was Paul Erdős born?
A) 1913
B) 1900
C) 1920
D) 1940
- 8. Erdős often used to designate a financial reward for:
A) Solving a mathematical problem.
B) Writing a paper.
C) Teaching a course.
D) Completing a book.
- 9. What drug did Erdős famously use?
A) Nicotine
B) Amphetamines
C) Caffeine
D) Alcohol
- 10. What was Erdős's approach to life and work?
A) Solitary
B) Collaborative
C) Competitive
D) Indifferent
- 11. What did Erdős frequently give away?
A) Food
B) Books
C) Money
D) Mathematical papers
- 12. What was the mathematical area of 'epsilon-delta' concepts?
A) Geometry
B) Combinatorics
C) Set theory
D) Analysis
- 13. Which of the following describes Erdős's lifestyle?
A) Minimalist and nomadic.
B) Luxurious and stable.
C) Conventional and affluent.
D) Urban and isolated.
- 14. In which year did Paul Erdős pass away?
A) 1996
B) 2001
C) 1989
D) 1993
- 15. What lifespan duration did Erdős reach?
A) 83 years
B) 100 years
C) 75 years
D) 90 years
- 16. What was the purpose of Erdős traveling to various universities?
A) To collaborate with mathematicians.
B) To promote mathematics.
C) To give interviews.
D) To lecture only.
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