On the role of Giovanni Giorgi in the history of operational methods to mathematical-physics problems

Abstract

In this paper we discuss the historical role played by Prof. Giovanni Giorgi (1871-1950) in the development of operational methods in mathematical physics. In the literature, the analysis of the scientific contributions of Giorgi is discussed in many historical papers mainly about the $MKSΩ$-system and its contributions in the field of electrical engineering. Starting from the obituary written by Prof. Dario Graffi (1905-1990), here we analyze in detail the contributions given by Giorgi in mathematical physics, especially in the framework of the studies started by Heaviside (1850-1925) in order to obtain a symbolic representation of the solutions of differential equations emerging in physical problems. \\ Moreover, we underline the little known contribution of Giorgi to the analysis of derivatives of any real order, namely fractional derivatives, according to the present notation. \\ The main aim of this note is to underline the historical relevance of Giorgi in the mathematical foundations of operational methods in relation to the solutions of concrete problems emerging in applied physics.