On quadratic and nonquadratic forms: Application to nonbijective R^{2m} -> R^{2m-n} transformations

Abstract

Hurwitz transformations are defined as specific automorphisms of a Cayley-Dickson algebra. These transformations generate quadratic and nonquadratic forms. We investigate here the Hurwitz transformations corresponding to Cayley-Dickson algebras of dimensions 2m = 2, 4 and 8. The Hurwitz transformations which lead to quadratic forms are discussed from geometrical and Lie-algebraic points of view. Applications to number theory and dynamical systems are briefly examined.