Quadratic Number Fields

This undergraduate mathematics textbook delivers a sophisticated yet accessible introduction to the arithmetic of quadratic number fields, covering essential algebraic number theory concepts including rings of integers, unit groups, and ideal class groups. What distinguishes this work is its ambitious scope—it ventures beyond standard undergraduate treatments by incorporating topics typically reserved for advanced graduate studies. The author presents quadratic fields as the ideal gateway to understanding modern algebraic number theory, providing both foundational knowledge and glimpses into deeper mathematical structures.

Lemmermeyer's approach stands out for its elegant exposition and careful placement of quadratic number theory within the broader landscape of contemporary mathematics. Mathematics majors seeking a rigorous preparation for graduate studies will find this text particularly valuable, as it builds the conceptual framework necessary for advanced number theory while maintaining exceptional clarity. The book successfully bridges the gap between elementary number theory and sophisticated algebraic methods, making abstract concepts tangible through the concrete setting of quadratic fields.