Geometry and Astronomy: Pre-Einstein Speculations of Non-Euclidean Space
by Helge Kragh
Publisher: arXiv 2012
Number of pages: 76
Description:
The recognition that physical space (or space-time) is curved is a product of the general theory of relativity, such as dramatically shown by the 1919 solar eclipse measurements. However, the mathematical possibility of non-Euclidean geometries was recognized by Gauss more than a century earlier, and during the nineteenth century mathematicians developed the pioneering ideas of Gauss, Lobachevsky, Bolyai and Riemann into an elaborate branch of generalized geometry.
Download or read it online for free here:
Download link
(1.1MB, PDF)
Similar books

by Max Planck - Columbia University Press
Landmark lectures (1909) by discoverer of quantum theory present revolutionary developments occasioned by application of quantum hypothesis to blackbody radiation. Also, how statistical mechanics transformed understanding of chemical physics.
(10281 views)

- American Institute of Physics
His theories and philosophy rose above a turbulent life. The story, checked for accuracy by leading historians, will interest all readers. Enhanced with striking pictures, voice clips, and essays, this is a one-stop source for Einstein information.
(23786 views)

by Sunil Mukhi - arXiv
This text provides some historical background and then reviews developments in string theory over the last twenty-five years. Both perturbative and non-perturbative approaches are surveyed and their impact on how we view quantum gravity is analysed.
(12776 views)

by Guido Bacciagaluppi, Antony Valentini - Cambridge University Press
1927 Solvay conference reconsidered. Contrary to folklore, the interpretation question was not settled at this conference and no consensus was reached; instead, a range of sharply conflicting views were presented and extensively discussed.
(13234 views)