Mathematical and Physical Papers

This collection highlights the influential work of Sir George Stokes, particularly his contributions to hydrodynamics and the law of viscosity.

The collected works of Sir George Stokes, titled Mathematical and Physical Papers, encompass a significant body of research that laid the groundwork for hydrodynamics. Stokes, who served as a prominent mathematician and physicist in the 19th century, is best known for formulating the law of viscosity, which describes how a small sphere moves through a viscous fluid. Despite his profound contributions to science, he did not publish any standalone books during his lifetime, making these collected papers the primary source of his influential work.

Stokes was not only a brilliant mathematician but also a dedicated lecturer and writer. His numerous papers were presented to esteemed institutions, including the Royal Society and the British Association for the Advancement of Science. The Mathematical and Physical Papers serve as a testament to his prolific output and intellectual rigor, showcasing his ability to communicate complex ideas effectively to his peers. These works, published between 1880 and 1905, highlight the depth and breadth of his research.

As the Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at Cambridge for over fifty years and a respected figure in various scientific organizations, Stokes made substantial contributions to the field. The collected papers reflect his legacy and influence, preserving the insights of a mathematician who played a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of fluid dynamics and other areas of physics.