Sir William Rowan Hamilton was a genius, and will be remembered for his significant contributions to physics and mathematics. The Hamiltonian, which is used in quantum physics to describe the total energy of a system, would have beena major achievement for anyone, but Hamilton also invented quaternions, whichpaved the way for modern vector analysis. Quaternions are one of the most documented inventions in the history of mathematics, and this book is about theirinvention, and how they are used to rotate vectors about an arbitrary axis. Apart from introducing the reader to the features of quaternions and their associated algebra, the book provides valuable historical facts that bring the subject alive. Quaternions for Computer Graphics introduces the reader to quaternion algebra by describing concepts of sets, groups, fields and rings. It also includes chapters on imaginary quantities, complex numbers and the complex plane, which are essential to understanding quaternions. The book contains many illustrations and worked examples, which make it essential reading for students, academics, researchers and professional practitioners. Provides valuable historical facts on the features of quaternions their associated algebra and how they can be used in computer graphics. Describes the concepts of sets, groups, fields and rings in order to enable the reader to design and code quaternion algorithms. Contains many illustrations and worked examples. INDICE: Introduction.-Number Sets and Algebra.-Complex Numbers.-The Complex Plane.-Quaternion Algebra.-3D Rotation Transforms.-Quaternions in Space.-Conclusion.
- ISBN: 978-0-85729-759-4
- Editorial: Springer London
- Encuadernacion: Cartoné
- Páginas: 148
- Fecha Publicación: 01/07/2011
- Nº Volúmenes: 1
- Idioma: Inglés