Number Systems Ancient to Modern - Egyptian Mathematics and Fractions - Lecture 1

Explore the ancient Egyptian number system and arithmetic in this 36-minute lecture from the Sociology and Pure Mathematics series. Delve into the base 10 system and unique approach to fractions used by the Egyptians, contrasting it with the Mesopotamian sexagesimal system. Learn about the remarkable Egyptian method for handling fractions, which differs significantly from modern approaches. Discover how their use of fractions simplified division operations. Examine the benefits of teaching fraction arithmetic and study Ahmes' table, a significant mathematical artifact. Gain insights into the historical development of mathematical concepts and their impact on modern arithmetic.

Comparing Egyptian and Babylonian maths
Egyptian arithmetic
Fractions
Use of fractions makes division "trivial"
Benefits of teaching fraction arithmetic
Ahmes' table