The Mathematics in Medieval Period
A Written Report
Presented to the Davao de Oro State College
Education Department
In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for Math 11
History of Mathematics Course
By:
Gumisad, Mary Sophie
Taray, Rocky Stephen
Quijano, James Bryle
Naparan, Darnel Jay
Comcom, John Blair
Cabahug, Christian
Nabarete, Marielle
Ongayo, Gio Paul
Vicente, Josielyn
Miraflor, Juriene
Polinar, Ermelyn
Rana, Gio Marie
Agsoy, Lord Jay
Amen, Jiancarlo
Acero, Charjun
November 22, 2023
The Mathematics in Medieval Period
Medieval mathematics refers to the mathematical developments and
achievements that occurred during the Middle Ages, roughly spanning from the 5th
to the 15th century. This period saw great cultural, scientific, and intellectual
advances, especially advances in mathematics. Various civilizations advanced and
contributed to mathematics during the medieval period, including Indian, Islamic,
European, and Chinese mathematics. These various traditions interacted and
impacted one another, thereby contributing to the general development of
mathematics at the period. Indian mathematics pioneered the decimal numeral
system and zero, which had a profound impact on computation. Islamic scholars
translated and developed on Greek and Indian writings, contributing significantly to
algebra, trigonometry, and geometry. Chinese mathematics, with its emphasis on
arithmetic, algebra, and geometry, also influenced mathematical developments in
other regions. The exchange of ideas between these civilizations played a crucial
role in the development of mathematics in the medieval period.
Indian Mathematics
In the medieval era, Indian mathematics exhibited astonishing feats in multiple
areas of the discipline, establishing the groundwork for future progress. Scholars
worldwide continue to examine and appreciate the groundbreaking ideas and
techniques developed by Indian mathematicians during this period. Some of the
notable mathematicians in medieval period is Aryabhata and Bhaskara II.
1. Aryabhata (476 CE - 550 CE)
Aryabhata is often regarded as one of India's most
illustrious mathematicians. He was born in 476 CE in Patna,
the capital of Bihar, India. He received his early schooling
from the historic educational facilities of Kusumapura, today
known as Pataliputra. Aryabhata has made major
contributions to the discipline of mathematics during his life.
His most important contribution was the description of
astronomical computations and trigonometry, which were
highlighted in his well-known work, Aryabhatiya.
Aryabhata’s Contribution in Mathematics
One of Aryabhata's most important contributions to mathematics was the
introduction of the place value system and the concept of zero. The place value
system states that a digit's value is determined by its position in a number, which is
how our numbers function today. The basis in Aryabhata's system was ten, which
means that the value of each digit is determined by its position multiplied by powers
of 10. This approach enables the representation of enormous numbers with a small
number of symbols.
Furthermore, the introduction of the concept of zero as a placeholder was a
groundbreaking addition to Aryabhata's place value system. Zero serves as an
empty position holder, indicating the absence of a value in a specific place. This
concept of zero as a placeholder enabled more efficient calculations and
computations by providing a concise representation of numbers. For example, the
number 205 can be represented as 200 + 0 + 5, clearly indicating the presence of
two hundreds, no tens, and five units. This representation simplifies arithmetic
operations, allowing for accurate calculations and easier comparison of numbers.
Moreover, Aryabhata's approximation for the value of pi (π) accurate to the
first four digits, 3.1416, was also a significant contribution to mathematics. He
employed innovative geometric methods to estimate the value of pi, which allowed
him to make significant progress in the understanding of circles and their properties.
While Aryabhata's approximation is not as precise as the value of pi calculated in
modern times (approximately 3.14159...), it was a significant achievement for his era.
His approximation demonstrated a deep understanding of mathematical concepts
and laid the groundwork for further investigations of mathematicians today in the
study of circles and their properties.
While Aryabhata produced numerous significant and far-reaching
contributions, the discovery of the place value system, the notion of zero, and the
approximation of the value of pi () were his most significant contributions to
mathematics. His contributions transformed several fields of mathematics and laid
the groundwork for future advances. His efforts were pioneering and transformative,
and he left a lasting legacy in the discipline before his away in 550 CE.
2. Bhaskara II (1114 CE - 1185 CE)
Bhaskara II, also known as Bhaskaracharya
(Bhaskara the Teacher) was an eminent Indian astronomer
and mathematician. Born in 1114 CE in Bijapur, present-
day Karnataka, India, he made significant contributions to
the fields of mathematics and astronomy. Bhaskara II is
renowned as one of the most influential mathematicians of
his time, and his works had a profound impact on the
development of Indian mathematics.
Bhaskara II Contribution in Mathematics
Bhaskara II contributed significantly to calculus and differential equations. He
pioneered the concept of infinitesimal calculus, laying the framework for further
advances in this discipline. His calculus work includes the study of derivatives as
well as the concept of instantaneous rates of change.
In addition to his contributions to calculus, Bhaskara II provided solutions to
various algebraic problems. His treatise "Bijaganita" (Algebra) presented solutions to
quadratic equations with both positive and negative roots, along with methods for
solving indeterminate equations. His work in algebra expanded the understanding of
these mathematical concepts.
Bhaskara II's notable contributions also extended to the field of trigonometry.
He introduced trigonometric identities and formulas, including the sine and cosine
functions. Through his work, he studied trigonometric ratios, their properties, and
their applications in astronomy and geometry. His advancements in trigonometry
expanded the understanding and applications of these mathematical principles.
Astronomy was another area where Bhaskara II made significant
contributions. His treatise "Siddhanta Shiromani" (Crown of Treatises) was a
comprehensive work on astronomy. Within this treatise, he formulated mathematical
models and precise methods for calculating planetary positions, eclipses, and
celestial phenomena. Bhaskara II's contributions to astronomy included the study of
planetary motion, lunar and solar eclipses, and the measurement of time.
By making significant contributions to calculus, algebra, trigonometry, and
astronomy, Bhaskara II's work had a profound impact on the development of
mathematics and its applications. His works showcased a deep understanding of
mathematical concepts and paved the way for further advancements in Indian
mathematics. Bhaskara II passed away in 1185 CE in Ujjain, India, leaving behind a
rich mathematical legacy that continues to be appreciated and studied to this day.
Islamic Mathematics
During the medieval period, Islamic mathematics flourished, making
significant contributions to various branches of mathematics. Islamic mathematicians
made remarkable advancements in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and arithmetic.
Scholars like Alhazen and Al-Khwarizmi played pivotal roles in the development of
these fields.
1. Alhazen (965 CE – 1040 CE)
Abu Ali al-Hasan ibn al-Haytham (Latinized as
Alhazen) was a medieval Arab polymath who is considered
as the father of modern optics. He was born at Basra, Iraq
in the year 965 CE. He is best known for his work on the
Kitāb al-Manāẓir (Book of Optics), also known as De
Aspectibusor Perspectiva. a comprehensive seven-volume
treatise on optics and other fields of study in which is
considered as a landmark in the history of optics and has
had a profound influence on the development of the field.
Alhazen’s Contributions in Mathematics
One of his major contributions in the field of mathematics, was the
Intromission Theory of Vision. Alhazen's intromission theory of vision challenged the
prevailing belief of his time by proposing that vision occurs when light rays enter the
eye and are refracted by the cornea and lens. This theory represented a
breakthrough, shifting the understanding of vision from the emission of rays from the
eye to the reception of external light.
In addition to his work on vision, Alhazen's inventions and studies in optics
were remarkable. He is credited with inventing the camera obscura, a device that
projected an inverted image of an object onto a screen through a pinhole. This
invention served as a precursor to the modern camera and played a vital role in the
development of photography.
Moreover, Alhazen's investigations into the behavior of light led to the
discovery of the laws of refraction, which describe how light bends when it passes
from one medium to another. These laws, known as Snell's laws, today, are
fundamental in the design and functionality of lenses and optical instruments.
Furthermore, Alhazen's keen observations and experimental approach to
science were influential in the development of the scientific method. He emphasized
the importance of observation and experimentation in the pursuit of knowledge,
paving the way for future scientific advancements. Notably, Alhazen's exploration of
lenses led to the discovery of spherical aberration, a defect that causes blurred
images. However, he also developed methods to correct this aberration, further
refining the field of optics.
Alhazen's contributions in mathematics, optics, and experimental science
significantly impacted the scientific community during the medieval period. His
intromission theory of vision, invention of the camera obscura, discovery of the laws
of refraction, understanding of spherical aberration, and emphasis on experimental
science laid the groundwork for further progress in these fields.
Alhazen's legacy continues to be recognized and celebrated as his ideas and
methods continue to shape our understanding of mathematics, optics, and scientific
inquiry. He died in 1040 CE at Cairo, Egypt.
2. Al- Khwarizmi
Abu Ja'far Muhammad ibn Musa Al-Khwarizmi,
commonly known as Al-Khwarizmi, was an Islamic
mathematician who was born on 780 CE in Baghdad,
Iraq. The word algorithm derives from his name. His
algebra treatise Hisab al-jabr w'al-muqabala gives us the
word algebra and can be considered as the first book to
be written on algebra.
Al-Khwarizmi's Contributions in Mathematics
One of his most significant contributions was the introduction of Hindu-Arabic
numerals, which had a transformative impact on mathematical practices. In his book
"al-Kitab al-Mukhtaṣar fi Hisab al-Hind" (The Compendious Book on Indian
Arithmetic), he explained the positional notation system and the use of zero. This
revolutionary numeral system, with its place value system and zero as a placeholder,
made calculations much more efficient and accessible. It provided a solid foundation
for modern mathematics and became widely adopted, eventually replacing earlier
numeral systems.
Another major contribution of Al-Khwarizmi was the development of algebra.
His work, particularly in his book "al-Kitab al-Jabr wa'l-Muqabala" (The Book of
Algebra on Completion and Balancing), laid the foundation for symbolic algebra and
systematic methods for solving equations. He introduced algebraic techniques for
reducing equations, transposing terms, and finding roots, providing a framework for
solving both linear and quadratic equations. Al-Khwarizmi's systematic approach to
algebra marked a significant departure from previous mathematical practices and
established algebra as a distinct branch of mathematics.
Al-Khwarizmi's work also had a profound impact on algorithmic techniques.
The term "algorithm" is derived from his name, reflecting his contributions to the
development of algorithms. He described step-by-step algorithms for solving various
mathematical problems, including arithmetic and geometric operations. His
systematic approach to problem-solving influenced the development of algorithmic
thinking and had a lasting impact on the field of computer science.
Furthermore, Al-Khwarizmi's works had a significant influence on Western
mathematics. In the 12th century, his works were translated into Latin, making his
mathematical concepts accessible to European scholars. These translations played
a vital role in introducing algebra and the Hindu-Arabic numeral system to the
Western world. Al-Khwarizmi's ideas and methods became foundational to the
development of mathematics in the West, paving the way for further advancements
in algebra, arithmetic, and other mathematical fields.
Overall, Al-Khwarizmi's contributions to mathematics, including the
introduction of Hindu-Arabic numerals, development of algebra, and algorithmic
techniques, were revolutionary. Before he died in 850 CE, his work transformed
mathematical practices and laid the foundation for modern mathematics which
continues to influence the field to this day.
European Mathematics
During the medieval period, European mathematics experienced notable
progress, contributing to the development of various mathematical disciplines.
Mathematicians in Europe made significant advancements in areas such as algebra,
geometry, number theory, and calculus. Mathematicians like Fibonacci and Nicole
Oresme played crucial roles in shaping European mathematics during this time.
1. Fibonacci (1170 CE – 1250 CE)
Leonardo Fibonacci was an Italian mathematician
who was born in 1170 CE at Pisa, Italy. He is renowned
for introducing the Hindu-Arabic numeral system to
Europe through his book "Liber Abaci" (The Book of
Calculation). This work played a crucial role in the
adoption of the decimal system and the use of Arabic
numerals in European mathematics.
Fibonacci’s Contributions in Mathematics
The Fibonacci sequence was Leonardo Fibonacci's famous contribution in the
field of mathematics. It became a fundamental mathematical concept during the
medieval period. The sequence starts with 0 and 1, and each subsequent number is
the sum of the two preceding numbers (0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, and so on).
Mathematicians were fascinated by this sequence due to its intriguing properties and
its occurrence in various natural phenomena, such as the arrangement of leaves on
plants and the growth patterns of rabbit populations.
Another significant contribution made by Fibonacci was the adoption of the
Hindu-Arabic numeral system. This numeral system, which we commonly use today,
includes the digits 0-9 and a place-value system where the value of a digit depends
on its position in a number. Before the introduction of this system, Europeans
primarily used Roman numerals, which had limitations in calculations and record-
keeping.
The Fibonacci sequence and the Hindu-Arabic numeral system exemplify the
innovative and transformative contributions made by European mathematicians
during the medieval period. These advancements not only expanded mathematical
knowledge but also provided practical tools and concepts that continue to shape our
understanding and application of mathematics in the present day. Fibonacci died in
1250 CE in Pisa, Italy
2. Nicole Oresme (1320 CE–1382 CE)
A French philosopher, theologian, and
mathematician who was born 1352 CE at Normandy,
Frace. Oresme made significant contributions to the
understanding of mathematics. His works encompassed
diverse areas, including the development of graphical
representations of mathematical concepts and the
exploration of infinite series and the foundations of
calculus.
Oresme’s Contribution in Mathematics
One of the notable contributions of Nicole Oresme was his exploration of
graphical representations in mathematics. Oresme recognized the power of visual
representations in conveying mathematical concepts and ideas. He introduced and
popularized the use of graphs and diagrams as tools for illustrating mathematical
relationships and patterns.
Oresme's work in graphical representation was particularly influential in the
field of geometry. He utilized geometric diagrams to represent geometric figures,
such as circles, triangles, and polygons. These visual representations provided a
clear and intuitive way to understand geometric concepts, aiding in the study of
angles, proportions, and spatial relationships.
Furthermore, Oresme employed graphical methods to analyze and interpret
mathematical functions. He developed graphical representations of functions, such
as curves and lines, to visualize their behavior and transformations. This approach
allowed for a deeper understanding of mathematical functions and their graphical
interpretations, paving the way for further developments in calculus and analysis
.
Overall, Oresme's contributions to graphical representation in mathematics
were significant. His use of graphs and diagrams as visual tools helped to simplify
complex mathematical concepts, making them more accessible and comprehensible.
His pioneering work laid the foundation for the later development and refinement of
graphical methods in mathematics, which continue to be widely used in various
branches of the discipline today.
Chinese Mathematics
The Chinese independently developed a real number system that includes
significantly large and negative numbers, more than one numeral system (base 2
and base 10), algebra, geometry, number theory and trigonometry.
The achievement of Chinese algebra reached a new height in the 13th
century during the Yuan dynasty with the development of tiān yuán shù (Chinese
system of algebra for polynomial equations). During this period, major technological
advances were made by the Chinese people – notably printing, the compass,
gunpowder – which would be critical to the rise of the modern world. Medieval China
thus forms a key time and place in world history.
The major texts from this period are the Nine Chapters on the Mathematical
Art and the Book on Numbers and Computation gave detailed processes for solving
various mathematical problems in daily life. There was time both innovation and
discovery, and an increasingly systematic organization of the great traditions of
Chinese Mathematics.
