Methodus Inveniendi Lineas Curvas Maximi Minimive Proprietate Gaudentes (1744)

By Leonhardo Eulero and Leonhard Euler

Book Overview

Methodus Inveniendi Lineas Curvas Maximi Minimive Proprietate Gaudentes, also known as Method of Finding Curves Enjoying Maximum and Minimum Properties, is a mathematical treatise written by the Swiss mathematician Leonhard Euler in 1744. The book focuses on the problem of finding curves that satisfy certain maximum and minimum properties, such as the shortest distance between two points, the path of a projectile that travels the farthest distance, or the curve that minimizes the time it takes for a particle to travel from one point to another. Euler's approach to solving these problems is based on the calculus of variations, a branch of mathematics that deals with finding functions that optimize certain functionals. In the book, Euler develops a general theory of the calculus of variations, including the fundamental theorem of the calculus of variations, which states that the solution to a variational problem satisfies the Euler-Lagrange equation. He also applies this theory to a wide range of problems, including the brachistochrone problem (finding the curve that minimizes the time it takes for a particle to slide down a frictionless wire), the isoperimetric problem (finding the curve of a given length that encloses the largest area), and the problem of finding the shape of a hanging chain. Methodus Inveniendi Lineas Curvas Maximi Minimive Proprietate Gaudentes is considered a landmark in the history of mathematics, as it laid the foundations for the calculus of variations and had a profound impact on the development of modern mathematics and physics. The book is written in Latin and is aimed at a professional audience of mathematicians and physicists.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1165430533
• ISBN13: 9781165430536
• Release Date: September 2010
• Publisher: Kessinger Publishing
• Length: 326 Pages
• Weight: 1.62 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 8.3" x 11.0"