Top Mathematics discussions
NishMath - #proof
|
gasarch (noreply@blogger.com)@Computational Complexity
//
Two high school students have achieved a remarkable feat by discovering a novel proof of the Pythagorean Theorem. This new proof, which employs trigonometry, has been accepted for publication after undergoing rigorous scrutiny. The achievement is particularly noteworthy because proving the Pythagorean Theorem using trigonometry is challenging due to the potential for circular reasoning, as trigonometry itself relies on the Pythagorean Theorem. Despite this hurdle, the students' proof has been deemed valid, showcasing their mathematical ingenuity.
The Pythagorean Theorem, a cornerstone of geometry and trigonometry, has been found on clay tablets dating back to 1770 BCE. These tablets, predating Pythagoras by over 1,000 years, reveal that ancient Babylonian mathematicians were aware of the theorem and used it to solve problems. One tablet, IM 67118, demonstrates the application of the theorem to calculate the diagonal length of a rectangle. Another tablet shows a square with triangles and markings, illustrating their understanding of the relationship between the sides of a square and its diagonal. This historical evidence challenges the traditional attribution of the theorem solely to Pythagoras. The newly discovered proof by the high school students and the revelation of the theorem's ancient origins highlight the enduring relevance and evolving understanding of mathematics. While the students' proof demonstrates fresh perspectives on a classical theorem, the historical context emphasizes that mathematical knowledge is often developed and disseminated over centuries and across cultures. As mathematician Bruce Ratner notes, the Babylonians were likely familiar with the Pythagorean Theorem and irrational numbers well before Pythagoras, suggesting a rich and complex history of mathematical discovery.
Share:
References :
Classification:
|
Blogs
|