Mathematical Treasure: Riemann’s Differential Equations

Bernhard Riemann (1826-1866) was a German mathematician noted for his work in analysis, number theory, and differential geometry. As a doctoral student he studied under Gauss. His Lectures on Partial Differential Equations and their Applications to Physical Problems, whose title page is shown above, was published in 1869. Riemann lent his name to many concepts in mathematics from surfaces to a geometry.

Here on pages 20-21, a student of calculus will recognize the development of a double integral to compute the volume of a solid.

The Special Collections staff at the Linderman Library of Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is pleased to cooperate with the Mathematical Association of America to exhibit this and other items from the Library’s holdings in “Mathematical Treasures.” In particular, Convergence would like to thank Lois Fischer Black, Curator, Special Collections, and Ilhan Citak, Archives and Special Collections Librarian, for their kind assistance in helping to make this display possible. You may use these images in your classroom; all other uses require permission from the Special Collections staff, Linderman Library, Lehigh University.

Index to Mathematical Treasures