Archive 2022 JMM AMS Special Session on Quaternions
The 2022 JMM was virtual due to COVID19
Scroll down for videos of
Quaternion Special Session
and links to abstracts
Organizers
Chris McCarthy BMCC – City University of New York
AMS Special Session on Quaternions, I
Morning Session
Wednesday April 6, 2022 from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM PST
8:00 AM
Graovac-Pisanski’s distance number for quaternion graphs
Lindsey-Kay Lauderdale, Towson University
Waring’s Problem in Quaternion Rings
Spencer Hamblen, McDaniel College
Abstract. Quaternions are often used to demonstrate the proof of Lagrange’s Four Square Theorem. The generalization of this theorem to higher powers is Waring’s Problem, which itself can be generalized to any ring
Recording available
9:00 AM Timelike Christoffel pairs in the Split-Quaternions
Abstract. The goal of this talk is to characterize the Christoffel pairs of timelike isothermic surfaces in the four-dimensional split-quaternions. When the ambient space is restricted to three-dimensional imaginary split-quaternions, we establish an equivalent condition for a timelike surface in
9:30 AM
Quaternion as space-time events and operators, a new symmetry for gravity, and analytic animation software
Abstract. A light sketch of 3 deep areas of study will be provided.Quaternions will be treated as events in space-time and as operators on those events. The origin in space-time is here-now, the present, where one is confined to be. Quaternions are famous for rotations in 3D space,
10:00 AM
Eigenvector in Non-Commutative Algebra

10:30 AM
Designing holonomy mazes
Abstract. Holonomy mazes are physical puzzles in which a piece moves along a network of rails on a surface. The piece is prevented from rotating other than by holonomy. Pegs alongside the rails block movement of the piece if it has the incorrect orientation, creating a maze. I’ll talk about the problems involved in choosing the peg locations to make an interesting maze. Since the orientation of the piece is important, the maze is best thought of as being embedded in the unit tangent space to the surface. If the surface is a sphere, this is real projective space, which is conveniently described with quaternions.
11:00 AM
On the best generators for PU(2), Part I
Abstract. We discuss recent algorithmic work in the design of universal single-qubit gate sets for quantum computing. Using quaternionically–derived “super golden gates,” we connect the problem of efficient approximate synthesis of given gates to arbitrary precision in quantum hardware design to “icosahedral gates” constructed using the symmetries of the icosahedron, which enjoy a form of optimality. This is joint work with Zachary Stier.
11:30 AM
On the best generators for PU(2), Part II
Abstract. Abstract. We discuss recent algorithmic work in the design of universal single-qubit gate sets for quantum computing. Using quaternionically–derived “super golden gates,” we connect the problem of efficient approximate synthesis of given gates to arbitrary precision in quantum hardware design to “icosahedral gates” constructed using the symmetries of the icosahedron, which enjoy a form of optimality. This is joint work with Zachary Stier.
AMS Special Session on Quaternions, II
Presentations
Afternoon Session
Wednesday April 6, 2022 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM PST
Abstract. Our best understanding of fundamental particles is summarized in the Standard Model of Particle Physics. Loosely speaking, these particles are described by a long list of irreducible representations of the gauge group
Abstract. Feedback is a functional mechanism providing biologic systems (BS) with regulated outcome. Feed and back actions form closed loops between two elements where the back portions of the loops are mediated by neural system. Negative feedback (NFB), positive feedback (PFB) and reciprocal links (RL) (PNR) are recognized regulatory mechanisms providing stability of biologic functions. Expressed as 2×2 matrices of linear dynamical systems, PNR acquires the properties of basis elements of imaginary part of coquaternion. Mechanism of splitting of developing characters doubles dimensionality of the functional space of the system; each of two split components becomes functionally stable, reproducible, therefore, autonomous as a system. As an autonomous unit each system is assumed to be regulated by integration of PNR patterns acting as coquaternion basis elements. Coquaternion is algebraically closed structure, therefore PNR matrices and a matrix representing identity element can be considered as a functional model of BS. On hierarchical tree of the systems, coquaternion structure of the root elements is embedded in the “functional space” of the branches. It creates functional self-similarity as a hierarchical principle of functional organization of BS.
Abstract. Color pixels can be encoded by a linear combination of the three basis vectors in a hypercomplex algebra framework; this encoding provides the opportunity to process color images in a geometric way. The proposed approach is based on a rapid and flexible method, using quaternions, for color image processing operations in natural and biomedical images. This pixel-based approach is computationally efficient, thus taking advantage of parallel architectures in modern computing systems, and has applications either as a standalone tool or integrated in image processing pipelines. Essentially, the method demonstrates that feature-rich mathematical frameworks can provide efficient solutions for color image processing.
Dance and the Quaternions
Abstract. Swirling movements, popular among contemporary dancers and choreographers, often employ double rotations of the limbs that facilely embody how the group SU(2) double covers the rotation group SO(3), and that are efficiently modeled by the quaternions. These movements are also employed in a variety of performance forms, such as the Balinese candle dance, baton twirling, and poi. We will examine how this effect plays out in these performing arts, and how comprehending the embodiment of the quaternions helps the understanding of both the mathematics and the relevant movement arts.