On the hypercomplex numbers and normed division algebras in all dimensions: A unified multiplication

• Published in: PloS one 2024-10, Vol.19 (10), p.e0312502
• Main Authors: Singh, Pushpendra, Gupta, Anubha, Joshi, Shiv Dutt
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Algebra; Algebra, Abstract; Algorithms; Complex numbers; Dimensional analysis; Dividing (mathematics); Group theory; Image processing; Mathematical analysis; Mathematical research; Mathematics; Methods; Models, Theoretical; Multiplication; Multiplication & division; Number systems; Numbers, Complex; Periodic functions; Quantum physics; Quaternions; State vectors; Vector space
• ISSN: 1932-6203; 1932-6203
• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0312502

Mathematics is the foundational discipline for all sciences, engineering, and technology, and the pursuit of normed division algebras in all finite dimensions represents a paramount mathematical objective. In the quest for a real three-dimensional, normed, associative division algebra, Hamilton discovered quaternions, constituting a non-commutative division algebra of quadruples. Subsequent investigations revealed the existence of only four division algebras over reals, each with dimensions 1, 2, 4, and 8. This study transcends such limitations by introducing generalized hypercomplex numbers extending across all dimensions, serving as extensions of traditional complex numbers. The space formed by these numbers constitutes a non-distributive normed division algebra extendable to all finite dimensions. The derivation of these extensions involves the definitions of two new π-periodic functions and a unified multiplication operation, designated as spherical multiplication, that is fully compatible with the existing multiplication structures. Importantly, these new hypercomplex numbers and their associated algebras are compatible with the existing real and complex number systems, ensuring continuity across dimensionalities. Most importantly, like the addition operation, the proposed multiplication in all dimensions forms an Abelian group while simultaneously preserving the norm. In summary, this study presents a comprehensive generalization of complex numbers and the Euler identity in higher dimensions, shedding light on the geometric properties of vectors within these extended spaces. Finally, we elucidate the practical applications of the proposed methodology as a viable alternative for expressing a quantum state through the multiplication of specified quantum states, thereby offering a potential complement to the established superposition paradigm. Additionally, we explore its utility in point cloud image processing.