¿Quién inventó los números?

Who Invented Numbers?

The Origins of Numbers

• The episode is sponsored by Platzi, which offers professional online courses in technology, programming, design, and mathematics.

• Early humans likely counted using their fingers, similar to how young children do today. The oldest numerical records date back approximately 20,000 years with tally marks on bones.

• The earliest written mathematics comes from Sumeria around 3000 BCE, where clay tablets recorded various counts for trade and land management.

Development of Numerical Systems

• Sumerians used a sexagesimal system (base 60), which is why we still divide hours into 60 minutes today. They created symbols for numbers up to 60.

• Notably absent from early systems was the concept of zero; the Olmecs were among the first to conceive it, later utilized by the Maya in complex calculations.

Introduction of Zero and Negative Numbers

• Ptolemy introduced a symbol for zero in 130 CE but only for fractional parts. Roman numerals lacked a zero representation, complicating mathematical operations.

• Aryabhata from India formalized the use of zero around 500 CE as both an absence indicator and a multiplier for adjacent digits. He also contributed negative numbers and operational rules.

Influence of Indian Mathematics

• Trigonometry originated in India with terms like "sine" and "cosine" derived from Sanskrit. This numeral system reached Baghdad in the 10th century through Arab scholars.

• Al Juarismi introduced decimal points for fractions and developed methods that led to algebra's naming after him. His work significantly influenced European mathematics when Fibonacci popularized these concepts in Europe.

Advancements Post-Fibonacci