Abstract
So many books on trigonometry are published that, when a new one makes its appearance, especial characteristics are naturally looked for. The present volume is much larger than usual, but it surveys a wider field as the course is intended to be a preparation for the study of higher mathematics, physical science and engineering. The authors state that several new and unique features are developed in the presentation of the subject, and this claim is well substantiated, for the fundamental principles of trigonometry are not dealt with in a piecemeal fashion so common in many books. Circular functions are, for example, defined generally at the beginning ; radian measure, too, is introduced at once and used throughout the course. The discussion of complex numbers, expansions in series and general analytical trigonometry is not only thoroughly sound, but also is more interesting and complete than is usual. Two chapters are devoted to the manifold applications of the subject to surveying, mechanics, geodesy and astronomy. Instructive chapters are also given on logarithmic computation and the use of the slide rule, whilst emphasis is rightly laid upon accuracy, precision and significant figures in all numerical work. Considerable attention is also directed to the analysis of problems and the reduction of the formulae deduced to a suitable form for numerical evaluation.
A Text Book of Trigonometry:
for Colleges and Engineering Schools. By William H. H. Cowles and James E. Thompson. Pp. x + 373. (London: Chapman and Hall, Ltd., 1936.) 12s. 6d. net.
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B., F. A Text Book of Trigonometry. Nature 140, 344 (1937). https://doi.org/10.1038/140344a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/140344a0