“The Frontiers of Space” is the third episode of the series
of the Story of Maths brought to us by Prof. Marcus du Sautoy from Oxford. This
episode presented us various mathematicians which focused on the development of
mathematics in Europe around 16-19th centuries up to what and how it
is being used today. Around 17th
century, Europe was able to overpower and replace Middle East in becoming the
world’s engine house of mathematics ideas.
It was shown in this episode how mathematics helped illustrating
a 3D perspective in a 2D representation. Another is, connecting algebra and
geometry was remarkable discovery. Usage of numbers, wherein formulas where
deducted, in correlating exact values or defining shapes and figures made
mathematics more precise and easily predictable. In addition, curved lines were
described using equations. It was also presented how codes helped in protecting
our credit card transactions in the internet.
One amazing part in this episode is the presentation of
Isaac Newton’s contribution to mathematics. People actually never knew his
contribution/s in this field, even those people who wander in the area where he
lived. Newton actually discovered significant mathematical ideas, particularly
the development of calculus where at the same time a rival also did the same,
Leibnitz. The development was crucial to understanding the characteristics of
moving objects. In addition, Professor Marcus mentioned the father of topology,
Leonhard Euler and Gauss who invented a new way of handling equations which is
modular arithmetic. Furthermore, it was shown how Riemann studied behaviors and
properties of objects.
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