IT2221: Introduction to Computing

What was one of the practical problems that Egyptian mathematics addressed?

Which numerical base did the Egyptians use in their system?

What is the Rhind Papyrus known for?

Which of the following is NOT listed as an improvement from technological change?

What is included in the broader definition of computing?

Which of the following best describes the impacts of computers and related technologies?

What was a method used by the Egyptians for record-keeping?

Which of the following does NOT have a distinct symbol in the Egyptian numerical system?

What is considered the foundation of computing today?

Which civilization thrived in Mesopotamia from about 2000 BC until 500 BC?

What type of texts were found from the Babylonian civilization?

What numerical symbols did the Babylonians use for their number system?

Who are two significant contributors to early Greek mathematics?

What secret society was established by Pythagoras?

What was one of the main mathematical focuses of the Greeks during 500-600 BC?

What tools did the Babylonians use to assist with counting and simple calculations?

Introduction to Computing

Technological advancements have significantly impacted society, improving living standards.
Modern computing encompasses managing, processing, and communicating vital information through devices and the Internet.

The Egyptians

Egyptian mathematics addressed practical problems: time measurement, flood tracking, land area calculation, bookkeeping, and tax computation.
Employed a base 10 numerical system with unique symbols for values ranging from one to a hundred thousand.
The Rhind Papyrus is a notable artifact containing mathematical texts, including arithmetic and geometric problems.
Mathematics education in Egypt was linked to participation in monumental construction projects for the Pharaohs.

Early Civilizations

Early civilizations laid the groundwork for modern computing through their mathematical contributions.
The naive understanding of calculations was transformed by these ancient societies' innovations.

The Babylonians

Flourished in Mesopotamia (Iraq) approximately from 2000 BC to 500 BC.
Mathematical texts recorded on clay cuneiform tablets were deciphered in the 19th century, revealing tables for arithmetic, cubes, and square roots.
Utilized a numerical system with only two symbols (1 and 10) to represent all numbers through combination.
Counting boards were integral for performing simple calculations and assisting with counting.

The Greeks

Significant contributions from Greek mathematicians, particularly Pythagoras and Thales, focused on geometry around 500-600 BC.
Pythagoras, influenced by Egyptian mathematics, founded a secret society known as the Pythagoreans, who believed in the power of numbers and the transmigration of souls.
The Pythagorean framework promoted the philosophical relationship between numbers and reality.

Explore the fascinating history of computing, especially in ancient Egypt. This quiz covers how early civilizations measured time, calculated land areas, and managed bookkeeping to tackle practical problems. Test your knowledge on how these innovations laid the groundwork for modern computing.