Overview of Computing and Early Civilizations

What numerical system did the Babylonians use for their calculations?

Which ancient civilization documented various arithmetic and geometric problems in a single document?

Which theorem was established by Pythagoras?

What was one of the primary uses of the counting boards used by the Babylonians?

What significant contribution did Thales make to geometry around 500-600 BC?

Overview of Computing

Technological change has transformed society, enhancing living standards through computers, mobile devices, the Internet, and social media.
Computing includes activities for managing, processing, and communicating critical information using computers.

Early Civilizations and Their Contributions

Babylonians

Existed in Mesopotamia from 2000 BC to 500 BC.
Developed a numerical system using two symbols (1 and 10).
Created clay cuneiform tables for mathematical operations.
Utilized counting boards that functioned like an abacus for calculations.

Egyptians

Employed a base 10 numerical system with unique symbols for solving practical problems.
Focused on time measurement and tax calculations.
The Rhind Papyrus recorded various arithmetic and geometric problems, serving as a resource for construction education.

Greeks

Significant advancements in geometry were made by mathematicians like Pythagoras and Thales around 500-600 BC.
Pythagoras introduced the Pythagorean theorem, fundamental to geometry.
Thales’ theorem in Euclidean geometry states that for points A, B, and C on a circle, with AC as the diameter, the angle at B is a right angle.

This quiz explores the impact of technological change on society through computing. It also examines the contributions of early civilizations, such as the Babylonians, Egyptians, and Greeks, to numerical systems and mathematics. Test your knowledge on how these ancient cultures laid the groundwork for modern computing and mathematical practices.