Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
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Understanding the mathematical operations of multiplication and divi-
sion
• Numeric and mathematical knowledge probably derived from priests or
shamans:
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Counting astronomical time such as eclipses and positions of stars
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Measuring the speed or velocity of moving objects
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Measuring curves, circles, and irregular shapes
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Measuring rates of change such as acceleration
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Measuring invisible phenomena such as the speed of sound and light
• Numeric and mathematical knowledge developed by mathematicians:
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Analyzing probabilities for games and gambling
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Understanding abstract topics such as zero and negative numbers
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Understanding complex topics such as compound interest
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Understanding very complex topics such as infinity and uncertainty
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Understanding abstract topics such as irrational numbers and quantum
uncertainty
Prehistoric numeric and mathematical knowledge probably could have been
handled with careful observation assisted by nothing more than tokens such as
stones or scratches, plus sticks for measuring length. Addition and subtraction are
clearly demonstrated by just adding or removing stones from a pile.
Numeric and mathematical knowledge from early civilizations would have
needed a combination of abstract reasoning aided by physical devices. Obviously,
some kind of balance scale is needed to measure weight. Some kind of angle cal-
culator is needed to measure the heights of mountains. Some kind of recording
method is needed to keep track of events, such as star positions over long time
periods.
Numeric and mathematical knowledge probably derived from priests or sham-
ans would need a combination of abstract reasoning; accurate time keeping; accur-
ate physical measures; and awareness that mathematics could represent intangible
topics that cannot be seen, touched, or measured directly. This probably required
time devoted to intellectual studies rather than to farming or hunting.
Numeric and mathematical knowledge developed by mathematicians is per-
haps among the main incentives leading to calculating devices and eventually to
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