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digit zero. The concept of zero and its
integration into the place-value system also
enabled one to write numbers, no matter
how large, by using only ten symbols.
4. Fibbonacci Numbers
The Fibonacci numbers and their sequence
first appear in Indian mathematics as
mãtrãmeru, mentioned by Pingala in
2. The Decimal System connection with the Sanskrit tradition of
India gave the ingenious method of express- prosody. Later on, the methods for the
ing all numbers by means of ten symbols – formation of these numbers were given by
the decimal system. In this system, each mathematicians Virahanka, Gopala and
symbol received a value of position as well Hemacandra, much before the Italian
as an absolute value. Due to the simplicity mathematician Fibonacci introduced the
of the decimal notation, which facilitated fascinating sequence to Western European
calculation, this system made the uses of mathematics.
arithmetic in practical inventions much
faster and easier.
5. Binary Numbers
Binary numbers is the basic language in
3. Numeral Notations which computer programs are written.
Indians, as early as 500 BCE, had devised a Binary basically refers to a set of two num-
system of different symbols for every num- bers, 1 and 0, the combinations of which
ber from one to nine. This notation system are called bits and bytes. The binary num-
was adopted by the Arabs who called it the ber system was first described by the Vedic
Hind Numerals. Centuries later, this nota- scholar Pingala, in his book Chandahšãstra,
tion system was adopted by the western which is the earliest known Sanskrit treatise
world who called them the Arabic Numerals on prosody ( the study of poetic metres and
as it reached them through the Arab traders. verse).
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