[Math 01] • College Notebook

Part of the Newton Papers Collection.

This

small notebook was probably used by Newton from about 1664 to 1665. It

contains notes from his reading on mathematics and geometry, showing

particularly the influence of John Wallis and René Descartes. It also

provides evidence of the development of Newton’s own mathematical

thinking, including his study of infinite series and development of

binomial theorem, the evolution of the differential calculus, and its

application to the problem of quadratures and integration.

This

notebook contains many blank pages (all shown) and has been used by

Newton from both ends. Our presentation displays the notebook in a

sensible reading order. It shows the ‘front’ cover and the 79 folios

that follow (more than half of them blank) and then turns the notebook

upside down showing the other cover and the pages that follow it. A full transcription is provided. The notebook was photographed while it was disbound in 2011.

The Newton Project’s YouTube site has videos explaining the importance of his mathematical work.

Physical location: Cambridge University Library, Cambridge, UK

Classmark: MS Add. 4000

Subject: Science - Mathematics Date

created: c. 1664 - c. 1665