EGYPTIAN MATHEMATICS Meaning and
Definition
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Egyptian mathematics refers to the mathematical practices and techniques that were developed and used by ancient Egyptians during the time of the Pharaohs, spanning from around 3000 BCE to the arrival of the Greeks in the 7th century BCE. It was a system of arithmetic and geometry that formed the foundation of their civilization's mathematical knowledge.
Egyptian mathematics primarily focused on practical applications such as measurement, taxation, construction, and trade. The system utilized a decimal notation, with symbols representing whole numbers, fractions, and even some irrational numbers. It heavily relied on the use of hieroglyphics to represent these numbers and perform calculations.
One significant aspect of Egyptian mathematics was their method of multiplication, which they performed through a system of repeated doubling. This method allowed them to multiply numbers together by successively adding multiples of the original number. Additionally, they had techniques for division, geometry, and the calculation of areas and volumes.
The ancient Egyptians popularized the use of mathematical papyri, a precursor to modern textbooks, which contained various mathematical problems and solutions. These papyri provided valuable insights into their mathematical knowledge and practices, demonstrating their advanced understanding of fractions, geometric principles, and basic algebraic equations.
Overall, Egyptian mathematics had a profound impact on the development of mathematics throughout the ancient world, influencing later civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans. It demonstrated the early use of mathematical principles to solve everyday problems and laid the groundwork for the future advancements in mathematics.
Etymology of EGYPTIAN MATHEMATICS
The word "Egyptian" refers to the ancient civilization that was centered around the Nile River in northeastern Africa, known as Egypt. The term "mathematics" comes from the Greek word "mathematikos", which means "inclined to learn" or "knowledgeable".
The etymology of the phrase "Egyptian mathematics" can be understood by examining the historical context. The ancient Egyptians developed a sophisticated mathematical system that revolved around practical applications rather than abstract concepts. They used a decimal system based on 10 symbols, and their mathematics focused heavily on measurement, geometry, and calculations needed for architectural and engineering purposes.
The term "Egyptian mathematics" likely emerged to describe the specific mathematical practices and techniques that were developed and employed by the ancient Egyptians. It denotes the unique mathematical system and methods used by this civilization.
