Matrix representation of octonions and generalizations

We define a special matrix multiplication among a special subset of 2Nx2N matrices, and study the resulting (nonassociative) algebras and their subalgebras. We derive the conditions under which these algebras become alternative nonassociative, and when they become associative. In particular, these algebras yield special matrix representations of octonions and complex numbers; they naturally lead to the Cayley-Dickson doubling process. Our matrix representation of octonions also yields elegant insights into Dirac's equation for a free particle. A few other results and remarks arise as byproducts. (C) 1999 American Institute of Physics. [S0022-2488(99)03108-4].