Mathematics
Mathematics is the study of measurement, properties, changes and the relationships of quantities using numbers and symbols. Also, mathematicians are generally concerned with finding patterns within numerical values. Mathematics to most is considered a universal language by which all things in nature are constructed of. Mathematics is used as a tool in many fields of study throughout the world to help gain a better understanding of concepts I natural sciences, engineering, medicine and social science. Mathematics is a natural extension that evolved from counting, calculating, measuring and studying the structure of shapes and motions of objects through abstract ideals and logic. It is still unclear, however, whether or not mathematics and its numerical values actually exist naturally. Many people believe that math is a concept created by man while others believe it is a building block of all things in existence.
History of Mathematics:
Math has evolved over the years through a series of recognized abstract concepts. Animals first practiced mathematics when they realized what numbers were and why they are important. They realized that two different objects of the same quantity hold something in common in mathematics. Soon, numbers were not only used to count physical objects, but also used to count abstract objects that don’t tangibly exist. An example of a non-tangible object being numerically counted is a day or a year. With the establishment of numerical values, slightly more advanced concepts, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division soon were recognized as well.
With the introduction of numbers also came the need to record those numbers to store for later reference. Eventually, early civilizations began using tallies to count numbers, and a tool called a quipu used by the Inca. A quipu is a series of strings that store numerical data using knots.
The earliest practical use of mathematics was done in situations involving trading, measuring the area of land, works of art, and patterns used to weave objects, such as baskets. Also, time was measured through mathematics to determine the arrival of seasons. Even more advanced math was used by Babylonians and Egyptians through algebra and geometry to in order to tax members of the society, as well as for other financial calculations. In addition, construction plans were created using math and astronomy calculations were also made. The first civilization to place mathematics itself into study were the Ancient Greeks during the years between 600 and 300BC.
The Evolved Use of Mathematics:
Mathematics was first used for key actions, such as the exchange of commerce and architecture. Today, almost all sciences are provided with a foundation of logic through the applied use of mathematics, while always presenting new math problems. Currently, a mathematical concept called string theory is still being analyzed and developed. Strong theory is a math concept that supposedly links all the forces of nature together.
In any way that mathematics is used, all mathematicians agree that math should be as simple and general as possible to show the inner beauty of it. Many people find mathematics an elegant and intrinsic field of study.
