The Mathematics of Minkowski Space-Time [electronic resource] : With an Introduction to Commutative Hypercomplex Numbers / by Francesco Catoni, Dino Boccaletti, Roberto Cannata, Vincenzo Catoni, Enrico Nichelatti, Paolo Zampetti.

N-Dimensional Commutative Hypercomplex Numbers -- The Geometries Generated by Hypercomplex Numbers -- Trigonometry in the Minkowski Plane -- Uniform and Accelerated Motions in the Minkowski Space-Time (Twin Paradox) -- General Two-Dimensional Hypercomplex Numbers -- Functions of a Hyperbolic Variable -- Hyperbolic Variables on Lorentz Surfaces -- Constant Curvature Lorentz Surfaces -- Generalization of Two-Dimensional Special Relativity (Hyperbolic Transformations and the Equivalence Principle).

Hyperbolic numbers are proposed for a rigorous geometric formalization of the space-time symmetry of two-dimensional Special Relativity. The system of hyperbolic numbers as a simple extension of the field of complex numbers is extensively studied in the book. In particular, an exhaustive solution of the "twin paradox" is given, followed by a detailed exposition of space-time geometry and trigonometry. Finally, an appendix on general properties of commutative hypercomplex systems with four unities is presented.