Quick and Easy Methods of Calculating A Simple Explanation of the Theory and Use of the Slide-Rule, Logarithms, &c

Abstract

THE author makes his title, “Quick and Easy Methods of Calculating”—at least, that is all that is in large print on the title-page; but the binder calls it, on the outside of the book, “The Slide-Rule.” The binder is right. The author gives a very short account of some methods of shortened arithmetic, in which he points out that it is unnecessary to work out the results of an observation with very great or unlimited accuracy when the observation itself is subject to well-known possible errors. He might have traced the connection between the desired accuracy of the arithmetic and the probable accuracy of the observation as dependant on its form, but he has not. There is a simple non-algebraical and very clear explanation of logarithms; then the real object of the book, an explanation of the slide-rule, follows. As in all explanations of the slide-rule that are published, however clear and obvious they may be to the user of the slide-rule, there is, of necessity perhaps, such an amount of detail and of rule as to possibly scare any would-be user of tnis invaluable instrument with the fear that he could not hope to remember it all. The writer of this notice has always felt that this difficulty can only be overcome by half an hour's personal explanation, in which case a book becomes unnecessary; however, for those who cannot meet with this personal assistance, the little book before us is clear, logical and accurate. A great number of examples, mainly derived from the engineering laboratory, are given, which serve both to show the great scope of the slide-rule and as exercises in its use.

Quick and Easy Methods of Calculating. A Simple Explanation of the Theory and Use of the Slide-Rule, Logarithms, &c.

With numerous Examples worked out by Robert Gordon Blaine., &c. (London: E. and F. N. Spon, Ltd. New York: Spon and Chamberlain, 1898.)