Google has reportedly purchased the assets of Orion, a mathematical algorithm that could further enhance the internet searches.

The Orion search engine is similar to conventional search engines such as Google, MSN and Yahoo in that it searches for keywords on web pages.

However, instead of just returning just a small description of the page as used in current search engine results, it returns a section of the relevant page and also lists other topics related to that particular keyword. The user will be able to select the most relevant results in context of what they are searching for.

"The results to the query are displayed immediately in the form of expanded text extracts, giving you the relevant information without having to go to the website - although you still have that option if you wish," said Israeli-born Ori Allon, a 26-year-old PhD student from the University of New South Wales who developed the new algorithm.

"By displaying results to other associated key words directly related to your search topic, you gain additional pertinent information that you might not have originally conceived, thus offering an expert search without having an expert's knowledge.

Allon said last September that some big companies had shown some initial interest in implementing Orion for commercial use.

According to vnunet.com, a Google spokesperson said that the company has "purchased the assets of Orion," but declined any further comment.