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

This volume reproduces the texts of a number of important, yet relatively minor papers.

Isaac Newton (Author), D. T. Whiteside (Edited by)

9780521045834, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 3 January 2008

722 pages
24.4 x 3.7 x 17 cm, 1.13 kg

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.

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.

Subject Areas: History of science [PDX]