Compare Egyptian and Babylonian number systems

The Egyptian number system was based on a decimal system with hieroglyphic symbols for powers of ten. It lacked a place value concept, making arithmetic operations less efficient. Egyptian mathematics included a sophisticated system for representing fractions. In contrast, the Babylonian number system was sexagesimal, based on a base-60 system with cuneiform symbols, which had a true place value concept, facilitating more efficient calculations. The Babylonian system's place value concept had a more profound and lasting impact on the development of mathematics, making it more influential historically.

Comments

  1. stephalafNovember 3, 2023 at 6:30 PM

    Hi Shawn, nice comparison explained, here. I wonder if you might elaborate on your thinking about the lasting impact and influence. In what way?

    ReplyDelete

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