Re: uBLAS Matrix Multiplication

From: Paul C. Leopardi (leopardi_at_[hidden])
Date: 2002-11-10 15:54:13

Hi,
There are at least two strong arguments here:
1. Use * for element-by-element multiplication of matrices. This treats 
matrices as if they were just arrays, with an added "mult" function, but it 
has the advantage that it prevents or at least discourages users from writing 
poorly performing code.
2. Use * for matrix multiplication. This treats matrices as if they were 
elements of a linear algebra, with algebra operations "+" and "*". C++ allows 
such abstractions, but there may be a penalty in performance if the 
abstraction is abused.

In GluCat - http://glucat.sf.net - I implemented Clifford algebras using "+" 
and "*". GluCat also has two other products, for which it uses, "&" and "^". 
I used "*" for the main product which defines the algebra. Underlying each 
Clifford algebra is an isomorphic matrix algebra.
Best regards