In mathematics, a quadratic form is a homogeneous polynomial of degree two in a number of variables. For example,
is a quadratic form in the variables x and y.
Quadratic forms occupy a central place in various branches of mathematics, including number theory, linear algebra, group theory (orthogonal group), differential geometry (Riemannian metric), differential topology (intersection forms of four-manifolds), and Lie theory (the Killing form).
Read more about Quadratic Form: Introduction, History, Real Quadratic Forms, Definitions, Equivalence of Forms, Geometric Meaning, Integral Quadratic Forms
Famous quotes containing the word form:
“All of womens aspirationswhether for education, work, or any form of self-determinationultimately rest on their ability to decide whether and when to bear children. For this reason, reproductive freedom has always been the most popular item in each of the successive feminist agendasand the most heavily assaulted target of each backlash.”
—Susan Faludi (20th century)