Algebraic methods for the determination of the geometrical higher order aberrations of optical systems ; On tensors arising from coordinate-invariant and gauge-invariant action integrals ; Two papers concerned with the axiomatic treatment of the second law of thermodynamics

The following thesis, submitted to the University of Tasmania for the degree of Doctor of Science, consists of two main sections, complete details of which may be found on pp. (ii)-(v). The parts marked [1]-[5] represent published papers, whilst [6]-[8] have been submitted for publication to the Acta Mathematica and the Annals of Mathematics respectively. The rest consists of a number of hitherto unpublished papers. The work was carried out indeendently by the candidate, and the various ideas underlying the construction of the algebraic optics here presented, as well as the methods of dealing with invariant action principles are due to him. Further details may be found on pp. 3, 34 ff., 149 ff., etc. Of two papers photostatic copies of proofs are given, as reprints have not yet been received. In accordance with the rules governing the degree, two papers on the Axiomatic Treatment of the Second Law of Thermodynamics, (due to appear in the American Journal of Physics in December 1948), have also been included.