An introduction to second degree forms

We are dealing with orthogonal sequences with respect to forms verifying a second degreee equation, i.e. that its formal Stieltjes functionS(u)(z) satisfies a quadratic equation of the formB(z)S ²(u)(z)+C(z)S(u)(z)+D(z)=0, whereB, C, D are polynomials. Various algebraic properties are given, especially those concerning the quasi-orthogonality of associated sequences. A classification is outlined. Some examples are quoted. In particular, we give the representation of Tchebychev co-recursive forms for any complex value of the parameter.