Mathematics is pretty much ubiquitous in modern life, whether underpinning technology, physics and engineering, or informing vital medical, legal and political decisions. Yet it is largely hidden from public view and - in my experience, at least - regarded by many people in western societies as irrelevant, frightening or both.

This book is my attempt to show what maths is doing in modern life, whether embedded in medical tests or CAT scanners, or forming an essential part of satellite navigation systems - and much else besides. The included selection of mathematical areas are those that I have been involved with, or are those of particular personal interest, but do not (and could not) form an exhaustive collection.

Equations are central in this book, as proper understanding cannot be achieved without them. Thus the earliest sections are intended to provide sufficient instructive background to enable any reader to follow the later material, although a familiarity with basic algebra may prove useful. In the same manner, in order to assist a wider readership, explanations and derivations are lengthier that would be needed for a specialist audience.

Anyone can 'do math' - all that is required is an open mind and some persistence.