Mathematicians use high-level mathematics and technology to create new mathematical principles, understand relationships between existing principles, and solve real-world problems with new inventions. Mathematicians have to do the following task: Expand mathematical knowledge by developing new principles and ideas. What will happen if there is no zero? Today we are buying and selling things, giving and receiving money without releasing the importance of that one digit, zero as it can make a big difference by coming before or after the number It can make you zero(0) or hero(10). Mathematics does not make life complicated but they make complicated life easier. There is maths in everything around you from measuring the area of land to making it house. Google Maps was not able to tell you the shortest route without Pythagoras’s Theorem. This theorem is used to find the shortest distance in navigation and it is also used in Interior Designing.
India has many great mathematicians and scientists. They invented great things and today we are applying them in our life without actually knowing much about them. Below are the names of 10 great mathematicians and their inventions.
1. Srinivasa Ramanujan:
born on 22 December 1887, in Tamil Nadu, a splendid Indian mathematician who gets appreciation even today for his commitments in the field of maths. He was a brilliant child who outgrow different kids of his age in maths. His family was not well enough to support his love for Mathematics. He was influenced greatly by reading George S. Carr’s book, ‘Synopsis of elementary results in pure mathematics. This book became his inspiration to follow his love for mathematics. Ramanujan is remembered for inventions of important equations like the infinite series of π, and game theory. In 1916, he got his degree of Ph.D. by the institution of G.H.Hardy, the great mathematician who invited him to Cambridge. Ramanujan left the world at an early age because of Tuberculosis in 1920. His work included the discovery of numerous theorems and the development of formulas that have been used to solve complex mathematical problems.
2. Shakuntala Devi (1929-2013 AD):
Shakuntala Devi was a renowned mental calculator known as the “human computer.” She had the remarkable ability to perform complex arithmetic calculations in her head quickly and accurately, making her a celebrated figure in the world of mathematics. A movie is also made on her life named “Shakuntla Devi” directed by Anu Menon. Within seconds, she was able to perform a huge calculation. She was given the title of the human-computer because she once failed the human computer in a calculation. She was awarded with Guinness Book of World Records for her fastest human computation. At Stanford University in the United States, she calculated a cube root of 95443993 in 2 seconds and a cube root of 2373927704 in 10 seconds.
3. Jyesthadeva (c. 1500-1575 AD):
Jyesthadeva was a mathematician and astronomer known for his work on calculus and trigonometry. He formulated a series expansion for pi (π) to 16 decimal places, which was the most accurate approximation at the time. The trigonometric functions are used in solving problems concerning triangles and related geometric figures. Architects also used this trigonometric formula in constructing the inclining roof of temples and used it in the analysis of rotating bodies. Calculus is used in many fields, including physics, engineering, and economics.
4. Pingala (c. 5th century BC):
Pingala was an ancient Indian mathematician who is credited with developing the theory of binary numbers. He used binary numbers to describe the prosody of Sanskrit poetry, which was an essential component of Indian literature at that time. Binary number theory is used in computers, cell phones, and almost all electronic items. Using this theory, numbers have been presented in digital form.
5. Narayana Pandit (14th century AD):
Narayana Pandit was a mathematician known for his work on algebra and number theory. He is credited with discovering Narayana’s cows sequence, which is an infinite sequence of integers that has many interesting properties. Algebra is used in natural sciences, physics, biology, chemistry, in mathematics itself. Algebra is a powerful tool that is used extensively in mathematics, science, and everyday life. Its applications are far-reaching, and it has helped us solve complex problems and make significant advances in many fields.
Moreover, Algebra is used in geometry to derive formulas for the area and volume of shapes. For example, the formula for the area of a triangle is derived using algebraic techniques.
6. Harish-Chandra (1923-1983 AD):
Harish-Chandra was a mathematician who made significant contributions to representation theory and harmonic analysis. His work has had a profound impact on physics, particularly in the study of particle physics and quantum mechanics. He received the Ramanujan Medal from Indian National Science Academy.
7. Aryabhata (476-550 AD):
He is known as the father of Indian mathematics. Aryabhata is considered one of the greatest mathematicians and astronomers in ancient India. He developed the concept of zero and a place value system, which laid the foundation for the decimal numeral system. Aryabhata’s work also included advancements in algebra, trigonometry, and astronomy.
8. Bhaskara II (1114-1185 AD):
Bhaskara II, also known as Bhaskaracharya, made important contributions to the field of algebra and calculus. He introduced the concept of infinitesimal calculus, anticipated differential calculus, and applied mathematical principles to solve problems in astronomy.
9. Brahmagupta (598-668 AD):
Brahmagupta was a mathematician and astronomer known for his outstanding work on the theory of numbers and algebra. He introduced the concept of zero as a number and formulated rules for zero’s interactions with other numbers. Brahmagupta’s work also included advancements in quadratic equations and the formula for solving cyclic quadrilaterals.
10. S.N.Bose:
was born in Kolkata in 1894. He is among the top 10 mathematicians in India. He made significant contributions to the field of electromagnetic radiation and collaborated with Albert Einstein on the Bose-Einstein statistics and Bose-Einstein condensates. Bose wrote a letter to Albert Einstein, who was impressed by his work and helped him to get it published.He received Padma Vibhushan for outstanding contributions to Science and Mathematics.
These Indian mathematicians and many others have played a vital role in shaping the field of mathematics. Their inventions and discoveries have not only advanced mathematical knowledge but have had far-reaching implications in various scientific and practical domains.
