Image for Ancient Egyptian Mathematics

Ancient Egyptian Mathematics

Ancient Egyptian mathematics was primarily practical, used for tasks like surveying land, constructing buildings, and managing resources. They employed a base-10 numeral system, using symbols for numbers like 1, 10, 100, and so on, allowing them to represent large quantities. They could add, subtract, multiply, and divide but did not have a symbol for zero. They also used fractions extensively, often expressing them as sums of unit fractions. Their mathematical knowledge was recorded in texts like the Rhind Mathematical Papyrus, showcasing their ability to solve problems related to trade and agriculture effectively.