Elementary number theory

This text provides a simple account of classical number theory, as well as some of the historical background in which the subject evolved. It is intended for use in a one-semester, undergraduate number theory course taken primarily by mathematics majors and students preparing to be secondary school teachers. Although the text was written with this audience in mind, very few formal prerequisites are required. Much of the text can be read by students with a sound background in high school mathematics.

elementary Number Theory, Seventh Edition, Is Written For The One-semester Undergraduate Number Theory Course Taken By Math Majors, Secondary Education Majors, And Computer Science Students. This Contemporary Text Provides A Simple Account Of Classical Number Theory, Set Against A Historical Background That Shows The Subject's Evolution From Antiquity To Recent Research. Written In David Burton’s Engaging Style, Elementary Number Theory Reveals The Attraction That Has Drawn Leading Mathematicians And Amateurs Alike To Number Theory Over The Course Of History.

The purpose of the present volume is to give a simple account of classical number theory, and to impart some of the historical background in which the subject evolved. Although primarily intended for use as a textbook in a one-semester course at the undergraduate level, it is designed to be used in teachers' institutes or as supplementary reading in mathematics survey courses. The work is well suited for prospective secondary school teachers for whom a little familiarity with number theory may be particularly helpful.-Pref