FLUXIONS

a term in mathematics. We owe the Doctrine of Fiuxions to Newton, who considered variables to be determined by the velocity or rate of flux of their increments. The name fluxion was given to the rate of generation of the variable quantity. This metbod of analysis is now Known as the infinitesimal calculus, but Newton’s notation has been replaced by that of Leibnitz, except occasionally in dynamics. The friends of Leibnitz disputed Newton’s claim to be the sole discoverer of the calculus, and a long and bitter controversy ensued. There seems no doubt that Leibnitz received his first ideas on the subject from Newton, although he afterwards made valuable advances on his own account. A complete and systematic treatment of fluxions was given by the celebrated Scottish mathematician, Colin Maclaurin. See a valuable paper by G. A. Gibson, The Analyst Controversy, in the Proceedings of the Edinburgh Mathematical Society, vol. 17, 1899.