The Bright Light of Mathematics Great mathematicians and their outstanding contributions

2024 Book of Answers

Mathematics has been an important driving force in the development of science and technology throughout the long history of mankind. In the history of mathematics, many outstanding mathematicians have emerged, and through their endless efforts and wisdom, they have created a new era in the field of mathematics and left a valuable legacy for mankind. This article will detail some of the shining moments in the history of mathematics and explore the contributions of great mathematicians, hoping to arouse readers' interest in reading.

Around 300 B.C., Euclid of ancient Greece wrote the Geometry Primitives, which laid the foundations of geometry and established a rigorous system of axioms. Euclid expounded many theorems through rigorous proofs, which provided important inspiration for later mathematicians. For example, he proved the Pythagorean theorem, which states that the sum of the squares of the two sides of a triangle is equal to the square of the hypotenuse, which has a wide range of applications in geometry.

Around 242 BC, Archimedes of ancient Greece became famous for his calculations of pi and the application of the method of infinite division. Archimedes accurately calculated the approximation of pi by approximating the circle with the inner and outer circumscribed of the polygon. This achievement was not only significant at the time, but also had a direct impact on the later development of calculus. In fact, Archimedes' work provided important clues to later mathematicians about approximate calculations and the concept of limits.

Around 200 AD, the Chinese mathematician Zhang Chang compiled the Nine Chapters of Arithmetic, a landmark work in the field of mathematics in ancient China. The Nine Chapters of Arithmetic introduces the concept of complex numbers for the first time and systematically expounds the methods of understanding equations. The chapter "Equation Technique" details methods for solving equations by means of "positive and negative elimination" and "equation cancellation", paving the way for later algebra developments. The practicality and flexibility of this book showcases the unique charm of Eastern mathematics.

Around 464 A.D., Zu Chongzhi of the Northern and Southern Dynasties of China used the circumcision method to calculate pi, and the calculation result was 31415926 and 31415927, very close to what is known in modern times as pi. In addition, Zu Chongzhi's family's talent in mathematics has been passed down from generation to generation, leaving a valuable legacy for the inheritance of mathematics.

Around 700 AD, the Indian mathematician Ayebodo's book Ariahatta first proposed the concept of trigonometry and sine and cosine functions. He gave a detailed introduction to the properties of triangles, calculation methods, and the relationship between trigonometric functions, which laid the foundation for later trigonometry research. Ayebodo's contributions have made trigonometry one of the most important branches of mathematics and widely used in astronomy, physics, and other fields.

Around 800 AD, the Persian scholar Al Khorazmi wrote Algebra, which introduced the decimal numeral system created by the Indians and detailed the basic concepts and algorithms of algebra. The publication of this book had a profound impact on the development of algebra and provided an important foundation for later algebra research.

Mathematics is everywhere and can do anything. It permeates all realms and can explain everything in the universe, completely beyond the capabilities of human beings. The book "Mathematical Meditations" organizes the structure according to the evolution of key concepts in mathematics, and explains the nature of mathematics and the relationship between mathematics and our material world and human thinking from a philosophical perspective. In the meantime, legendary historical figures and mysterious ancient legends make esoteric philosophical arguments interesting.

This book is suitable for all readers who are interested in mathematics.