Alexander MacFarlane

VECTOR ANALYSIS and QUATERNIONS Alexander MacFarlane

Since this Introduction to Vector Analysis and Quaternions was first published in 1896, the study of the subject has become much more general; and whereas some reviewers then regarded the analysis as a luxury, it is now recognized as a necessity for the exact student of physics or engineering. In America, Professor Hathaway has published a Primer of Quaternions (New York, 1896), and Dr. Wilson has amplified and extended Professor Gibbs' lectures on vector analysis into a text-book for the use of students of mathematics and physics (New York, 1901). In Great Britain, Professor Henrici and Mr. Turner have published a manual for students entitled Vectors and Rotors (London, 1903); Dr. Knott has prepared a new edition of Kelland and Tait's Introduction to Quaternions (London, 1904); and Professor Joly has realized Hamilton's idea of a Manual ofQuaternions (London, 1905). In Germany Dr. Bucherer has published Elemente der Vektoranalysis (Leipzig, 1903) which has now reached a second edition.