Elements of Vector Algebra (Classic Reprint)

This little book was written at the instance of Messrs. A dam Y) Hilger, and, in accordance with their desire, it contains just what is required for the purpose of reading and handling myS implified Method ofT racing Rays, etc. (L ongmans, Green Co., London, 1918). With this practical aim in view, all critical subtleties have (js been purposely avoided. In fact, it is scarcely more than a synoptical presentation of the elements of Vector Algebra covering the needs of those engaged in geometrical optics. At the same time, however, it is hoped that this booklet will serve a more general purpose, viz. to provide everybody unacquainted with the subject with an easy introduction to the use of Vector A lgebra. It is scarcely necessary to explain that the deductions given in this book are based onE uclid saxioms, notably with the inclusion of his postulate of parallels upon which the equality of vectors is most essentially based. Those readers who are desirous of seeing how the formal rules here given can be generalized so as to be valid independently of the axioms of congruence and of parallels, may consult the authors Projective Vector Algebra (B ellS ons, 1919), and a sequel to it published in Phil. Mag. for July, 1919, pp. 115-143. It is, however, advisable for the student to become first thoroughly familiar with the euclidean vector algebra as here presented. I tajce the opportunity of expressing my sincere thanks toM essrs. Hilger for enabling me to make this further contribution towards the promotion of the more general use of this powerful and convenient language of vectors, and to the Publishers for the care they have bestowed upon this little book. L. S. London, August
(Typographical errors above are due to OCR software and don't occur in the book.)

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