(1) The Mathematical Analysis of Electrical and Optical Wave-Motion on the Basis of Maxwell's Equations (2) Homogeneous Linear Substitutions

Abstract

ORIGINAL, and in fact fundamental, work in mathematics proceeds very rapidly in these days, and in so many departments, that even the expert mathematician frequently complains that it is impossible to keep pace with any but a restricted field. In these circumstances, we can well imagine the position of the unfortunate student who wishes to do mathematical work of a post-graduate nature, and even knows where his inclinations lie, but is appalled by the difficulty of discovering the present condition of any branch of the subject. There is room at present for many volumes which shall fulfil one or more of three main functions— collect together the fragments of a fundamentally important body of theory from their hiding-places in periodicals and text-books on other subjects, give the student exhaustive references to and criticisms of the necessary literature, and specifically indicate the problems which are now awaiting solution. If only because they discharge these functions in two departments of mathematics which, in the opinion of the present writer, are the most difficult of approach by the student, the two volumes now under review have made a most welcome and timely appearance.

(1) The Mathematical Analysis of Electrical and Optical Wave-Motion on the Basis of Maxwell's Equations.

By Dr. H. Bateman. Pp. vi + 159. (Cambridge: At the University Press, 1915.) Price 7s. 6d. net.

(2) Homogeneous Linear Substitutions.

By Prof. H. Hilton. Pp. 184. (Oxford: At the Clarendon Press, 1914.) Price 12s. 6d. net.