Quaternions vs. Einstein's four-vectors

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SUMMARY

Physicists transitioned from quaternions to Einstein's four-vectors due to the latter's superior applicability in special relativity. Quaternions, while useful in certain mathematical contexts, lack the straightforward geometric interpretation provided by four-vectors. The discussion highlights the relevance of Clifford Algebra and Geometric Algebra as modern frameworks that encompass both quaternions and four-vectors, offering a more comprehensive mathematical structure for physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Einstein's four-vectors in special relativity
  • Familiarity with quaternion mathematics
  • Knowledge of Clifford Algebra concepts
  • Basic principles of Geometric Algebra
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the applications of Einstein's four-vectors in modern physics
  • Explore the mathematical foundations of Clifford Algebra
  • Study the principles and applications of Geometric Algebra
  • Investigate the historical context of quaternion usage in physics
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Physicists, mathematicians, and students interested in the mathematical foundations of relativity and advanced algebraic structures.

Vectronix
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Why did physicists abandon the use of quaternions? Can you tell me some of the differences between quaternions and Einstein's four-vectors used in special relativity?
 
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A more methodical mathematical approach is the Clifford Algebra, which includes subspaces like the complex numbers and quaternians. A modern approach is Geometric Algebra. You might be interested in some of this history
 
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