A Journey Through Chinese Mathematics
A Journey Through Chinese Mathematics
Mathematics
Welcome! This presentation explores the rich history of Chinese mathematics,
from its ancient origins to its lasting impact on the world. Prepare to be amazed
by the ingenuity and innovation of Chinese mathematicians throughout history.
The ancient Chinese used a base-ten number system, similar to The ancient Chinese used symbols to represent numbers, such as
ours, but with different symbols. Each symbol represented a 壹 (one), 贰 (two), 三 (three), and so on. These symbols were
power of ten, and they used a combination of symbols to similar to the ones we use today, but with different characters. The
represent larger numbers. This system was efficient and allowed number system was based on a decimal system with a unique
for complex calculations. symbol for each number from one to ten, with a place value
notation.
Chinese Counting Rods and
Counting Boards
Counting Rods Counting Boards
Chinese counting rods were Counting boards were essential
small bamboo or ivory sticks for performing mathematical
used for calculations. They were operations. They provided a
placed on a counting board, a visual representation of numbers
table with a grid, to represent and allowed for easy
numbers and perform manipulation of counting rods
calculations. The rods were during calculations. They were
arranged in different positions used for a wide range of
and combinations to represent mathematical problems, from
different numbers. basic arithmetic to complex
algebra.
The Four Basic Operations in
Chinese Mathematics
Addition Subtraction
Addition was performed by arranging counting Subtraction was performed by removing
rods on a counting board to represent the counting rods from a counting board that
numbers being added. The rods were then represented the number being subtracted. The
combined to obtain the sum. remaining rods represented the difference.
Multiplication Division
Multiplication involved combining counting rods Division was a more complex operation, involving
in different arrangements to represent the repeated subtraction of the divisor from the
product of two numbers. This was done by dividend. The counting rods were manipulated
creating a multiplication table using the counting on the counting board to determine the quotient
rods. and remainder.
The Heavenly Algorithm (The Procedure for
Finding the Greatest Common Divisor)
Early Development
The Heavenly Algorithm was developed by the ancient Chinese mathematicians to find the
1
greatest common divisor of two numbers.
Essential Text
1 This ancient Chinese mathematical text, written around the 2nd century BCE, is a foundational work in the history of
Chinese mathematics.
Comprehensive Coverage
2 The text covers a wide range of mathematical topics, including arithmetic, algebra, geometry,
surveying, and measurement.
2 Astronomical Observations
Chinese astronomers made detailed observations of celestial bodies, leading
to advancements in understanding the solar system and predicting eclipses.
3 Influence on Astronomy
The contributions of Chinese astronomers played a significant role in the
development of astronomy in both China and the world.
The Spread of Chinese
Mathematics to Other Cultures
Silk Road
Chinese mathematics spread to other cultures through trade and cultural exchange
along the Silk Road. This led to the adoption of Chinese mathematical techniques and
concepts in other parts of Asia and the Middle East.
Arab World
Chinese mathematical knowledge reached the Arab world through translations and
cultural exchange. This contributed to the development of Islamic mathematics and
its further spread to Europe.
The Legacy of Chinese
Mathematics in the Modern
World
1 2
Foundation of Modern Continued Influence
Mathematics
Chinese mathematics continues to
Many of the fundamental concepts inspire and influence mathematicians
and techniques in modern around the world.
mathematics have roots in Chinese
mathematics.