Superposition: on Cavalieri's practice of mathematics (Q1039947): Difference between revisions

In his propositions on the congruence of triangles Euclid used superposition to decide whether two lines or angles are equal. The validity of his proof became a matter of debate. On the other hand superposition was applied by Archimedes and Cavalieri not only to lines and angles but also to curves and figures. The author of the present paper reviews different positions on and uses of superposition by Proclus, Archimedes, Peletier and Clavius and then analyses Cavalieri's use of it. Superposition plays an essential role in Cavalieri's geometry of indivisibles. Cavalieri checked the equality of two figures by superposing them, cutting off parts that coincide and then again superposing the rest -- possibly ad infinitum. Guldin's criticism forced Cavalieri to specify his concept of superposition. Cavalieri then identified three modes of superposition, which go far beyond the practice of Euclid and Archimedes: simple motion, inflexion and fluxion. Simple motion, for example, allowed him to compare the length of a line and the circumference of a circle by making the circle roll over the line. The author sees his analysis of Cavalieri's use of superposition and of the controversy on it between Cavalieri and Guldin as a contribution to the history of mathematical activities as opposed to mathematical objects.