The Method of Coordinates (Dover Books on Mathematics) / Gelfand, I. M.

This introductory text explores the translation of geometric concepts into the language of numbers in order to define the position of a point in space (the orbit of a satellite, for example). The two-part treatment begins with discussions of the coordinates of points on a line, coordinates of points in a plane, and the coordinates of points in space.
Part 2 examines geometry as an aid to calculation and the necessity and peculiarities of four-dimensional space. Written for systematic study, it features a helpful series of "road signs" in the margins, alerting students to passages requiring particular attention, and an abundance of ingenious problems with solutions, answers, and hints promote habits of independent work