How Indians blessed the world of Mathematics
How Indians blessed the world of Mathematics
It should come as no surprise when we talk of the contributions made by Indians in the field of Mathematics. There is no sector of Math that is left untouched by the Indians in terms of contribution, be it the Invention of the Number System & Zero, Quadratic equations, Arithmetic, Negative numbers, etc.
Also worldwide employed areas such as Counting, Geometry, Decimal system were first seen in India. In this blog, we’ll be looking at a few such contributions that changed the history of Mathematics for the whole world.
Basis of Calculus
Leibniz was the first European to use zero and the negatives (both invented in India) in his development of Calculus. It is also said that an Indian Mathematician named Bhaskara discovered Leibniz’s ideas over 500 years earlier. Bhaskara also made major contributions to Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry and Arithmetic.
Trigonometry
Mathematicians namely Aryabhata, Varahamihira, Bhaskara I, Brahmagupta, Manjula, Bhaskara II, Madhava have vastly contributed to Trigonometry starting from introducing and defining the trigonometric functions to advanced Indian Astronomy.
The concept of zero
Zero was fully created in India about the fifth century AD, or at least it was the first time zero was discussed in India. The Indian subcontinent has a thriving mathematics scene. The first example of the ideal zero beginning to be born can be found in a Bakhshali book from the third or fourth century.
The number system
We also have written evidence of the Brahmi numerals, which were the forerunners to the contemporary Indian or Hindu-Arabic numeral system that most of the world employs today, dating back to the third century BC. Almost all of the mathematical mechanics would be in place after zero was introduced, allowing ancient Indians to study higher mathematics.
Length
Before 1500 BCE, the Indus Valley Civilization is thought to have utilized rulers. The rulers discovered during excavation are made of ivory and exhibit the incredible accuracy of decimal subdivisions on it. The Indus Civilization was known for its precision in measuring length, mass, and time. They were among the first to design a standardized system of weights and measurements.
