THE TEACHING OF MATHEMATICS

THE TEACHING OF MATHEMATICS
Geometry and mathematical symbolism of the 16th century viewed through a construction problem
Milana Dabić

Abstract

This paper represents a construction problem from {ıt Problematum geometricorum IV} written by Simon Stevin from Bridge in 1583. The problem is used for illustrating the geometry practice and mathematical language in the 16th century. The large impact of Euclid and Archimedes can be noted. In one part of the construction, Stevin expressed the need for using numbers for greater clarity. Hence, the link with the work of Descartes and the further geometry development is pointed out.

Creative Commons License

Keywords: 16th century mathematics; mathematical symbolism; Simon Stevin; construction problems

Pages:  32$-$40     

Volume  XIX ,  Issue  1 ,  2016