Quantum calculus (Q5955189)

The book is an elementary introduction to the two types of quantum calculus, \(h\)-calculus (that is the calculus of finite differences) and \(q\)-calculus. The main emphasis is on \(q\)-calculus. The authors define and study the \(q\)-derivative and \(q\)-antiderivative, the Jackson integral, \(q\)-analogs of classical objects of combinatorics, like binomial coefficients, etc., analogs of elementary and special functions (trigonometric, exponential, hypergeometric, gamma and beta functions). The usefulness of \(q\)-analysis for classical problems of combinatorics and number theory is illustrated by proofs of the explicit formulas of Gauss and Jacobi for the number of partitions of an integer into a sum of two and of four squares. Within \(h\)-calculus, the authors discuss the Bernoulli numbers and polynomials, and the Euler-Maclaurin formula. The title ``Quantum calculus'' can be seen as a hint to connections with quantum groups and their applications in mathematical physics. However the book does not treat these subjects remaining within classical analysis and combinatorics.