Computer Science Overview and Number Systems

Computer Science Overview

• Computer Science focuses on the study of computers and computational systems, emphasizing software systems and their theory, design, development, and application.

Evolution of Positional Number Systems

• Egyptian Number System: Emerged around 3000 BC with a base of 10; symbols represented units, tens, hundreds, and thousands, written from right to left.
• Sumerian/Babylonian System: Utilized a base of 60 and employed blank space instead of a zero.
• Chinese Number System: Developed around 2500 BC; utilized digits 1 to 9, similar to the modern decimal system.
• Greek Ionian Number System: Evolved around 500 BC as a decimal system.
• Roman Numerals: Utilized seven letters (I, V, X, L, C, D) for numerical representation.
• Mayan Number System: Based on 20.
• Hindu-Arabic Numeral System: Originated in India approximately 1500 years ago, is a positional decimal system incorporating the concept of zero, widely adopted globally.

Evolution of Computing Machines

• Abacus: The first computing device created by Mesopotamians around 3000 BC for performing calculations based on a place value system.
• Napier’s Bones: Developed by John Napier in 1617 AD, it simplified multiplication into addition, applicable for digits 2-9.
• Pascaline: Created by Blaise Pascal in 1642, capable of directly adding and subtracting numbers using a series of dialed wheels.
• Leibniz’s Calculator: Developed by Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, known as the Step Reckoner, capable of multiplication and division, expanding on Pascal’s design.
• Jacquard’s Loom: Invented by Joseph Jacquard in 1801; utilized punch cards to denote instructions, marking the first use of programmable automation.
• Difference Engine: Mechanical calculator modeled by Charles Babbage in 1822 for computing sets of numbers and producing hard copies.
• Analytical Engine: Developed by Charles Babbage in 1833; featured modern computer elements like a 'Store' (memory) and 'Mill' (processor) and was programmable via punched cards.
• Hollerith’s Machine: Created by Herman Hollerith in 1887, the first electromechanical tabulating device using punched cards, whose designs influenced IBM's future developments.
• Mark I: Designed by Howard Aiken for IBM, it was a large-scale computer capable of performing all arithmetic operations and trigonometric functions.

Generations of Computers

• First Generation (1940-56): Utilized vacuum tubes; included ENIAC and UNIVAC; introduced stored program concepts; primarily bulk and used punched cards for I/O.
• Second Generation (1956-64): Transistor-based; smaller, faster, and less expensive; initiation of programming languages.
• Third Generation (1964-71): Featured Integrated Circuit chips; enhanced speed and efficiency; introduction of keyboards and monitors; emergence of high-level languages like BASIC.
• Fourth Generation (1971-Present): Dominated by microprocessors, further reducing size while enhancing capability and simplicity.

Explore the foundations of computer science and the evolution of number systems through history. This quiz covers various numeral systems including Egyptian, Babylonian, Chinese, and more, detailing their origins and characteristics. Test your knowledge on how these systems have influenced modern computing.