L. Euler and the mathematical description problem of blood flow

Our talk will examine the L. Euler work, one way or another related to the physiology problems. The main focus will be on his research on mathematical modeling of blood flow (hemodynamics). The study of these works showed that, unlike the statements common in the literature, Euler was unable to give a mathematical description of the blood flow process.When he turned to the formulation of the problem that best corresponded to the actual blood flow situation (although, of course, it is still very far from it), he was bitterly disappointed. He failed to reduce its solution to integrating one equation with one variable, which is not surprising, given the complexity of the problem. As a result, Euler had to admit: «Since there is no clear path to a solution, this research should be considered beyond human strength, so we, of course, have to stop our work here... Thus, when solving the issue of the movement of blood, we face insurmountable difficulties (insufferables difficultates) that prevent a thorough and accurate study of all the creatures of God, and therefore we must constantly admire and reverence the supreme wisdom combined with omnipotence, since, truly, even the greatest human ingenuity is unable to understand and explain the true structure of even the smallest microorganism (cum ne summum quidem ingenium humanum vel levissimae vibrillae veram structuram percipere atque explicare valeat)».
Taking into account this circumstance, as well as the fact that Euler’s work on this subject was partially published only in 1862, and completely in 1979, it can be argued – again, contrary to popular opinion in the literature – that it could not have any influence on the development of physiology.
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