The Mathematical Papers of Isaac Newton: Volume 4, 1674-1684

by Isaac Newton, D. T. Whiteside

Overview

This volume reproduces the texts of a number of important, yet relatively minor papers, many written during a period of Newton's life (1677–84) which has been regarded as mathematically barren except for his Lucasian lectures on algebra (which appear in Volume V). Part 1 concerns itself with his growing mastery of interpolation by finite differences, culminating in his rule for divided differences. Part 2 deals with his contemporary advances in the pure and analytical geometry of curves. Part 3 contains the extant text of two intended treatises on fluxions and infinite series: the Geometria Curvilinea (c. 1680), and his Matheseos Universalis Specimina (1684). A general introduction summarizes the sparse details of Newton's personal life during the period, one – from 1677 onwards – of almost total isolation from his contemporaries. A concluding appendix surveys highlights in his mathematical correspondence during 1674–6 with Collins, Dary, John Smith and above all Leibniz.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521045834
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	01/03/2008
Series:	The Mathematical Papers of Sir Isaac Newton
Pages:	722
Product dimensions:	8.20(w) x 10.90(h) x 1.60(d)

Table of Contents

Part I. Researches in Algebra, Number Theory and Trigonometry: 1. Approaches to a General Theory of Finite Differences; 2. Problems in Elementary Number Theory; 3. Codifications of Elementary Plane and Spherical Trigonometry; 4. Miscellaneous Notes on Annuities and Algebraic Factorization; Part II. Researches in Pure and Analytical Geometry: 1. Miscellaneous Problems in Elementary Geometry; 2. Researches into the Greek 'Solid Locus'; 3. Miscellaneous Topics in Analytical Geometry; Part III. The 'Geometria Curvilinea' and 'Matheseos Universalis Specimina': 1. The 'Geometry of Curved Lines'; 2. Specimens of a Universal System of Mathematics; Appendix.