复数的历史发展及在中国早期的传播

目的分析复数的历史发展进程,澄清复数在中国的早期传播过程。方法运用文献考证、历史分析和比较研究的方法对复数的发展进行研究。结果复数起源于代数方程求解,随着函数概念与微积分的发展而得到发展,并通过其几何表示最终为人们所接受。随着西学东渐,19世纪中期复数被引入中国。结论复数的产生是人们传统思想上的一次真正的变革,它表现为理性和理想之间的某种神秘结合,反映了自由创造领先于形式化和逻辑基础的一种一般现象,其接受过程艰难曲折。复数的引入促进了中国现代数学的发展。复数在物理学、电工学等其他领域的应用须进一步研究。

Development of complex number and its early spread in China

Aim To analyze the history development of complex number and clarify its early spread in China.Methods The methods of textual research,historical analysis and comparative research are used to study the development of complex number.Results The complex number originates from the solution of algebraic equations,developing with the development of function and calculus,and is accepted by its geometrical representation.With the Western learning coming to China,the complex number is introduced to China in the middle of 19 century.Conclusion The emergence of the complex number is a true revolution in human traditional thought.It appears by way of some mysterious association between logos and ideal,and reflects a sort of general phenomenon,in which free creation is prior to formalization and logical basis.Its acceptance goes through difficulties and setbacks.The introduction of the complex number accelerates the development of modern mathematics in China.Its application to the physics and electrotechnics and so on need to be studied further.