Kuttaka

The Kuttaka is an ancient Indian mathematical method, also called the "pulverizer," used to solve linear equations where a variable appears once (like ax + b = 0). It is essentially an algorithm for finding solutions to these equations efficiently. The technique involves factoring numbers and using special procedures to determine the answer, often involving continued fractions. Historically, it was a key tool in Indian mathematics for solving problems related to astronomy and commerce, laying groundwork for advanced algebra. Today, it highlights early human efforts to develop systematic ways of solving mathematical equations.