Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Origin of Math Signs
7 snips
Sep 20, 2023 Ever wondered where math symbols like plus and minus originate? This entertaining dive reveals how these notations revolutionized how we approach mathematics, making it more accessible. The evolution of symbols is explored, shedding light on their historical development and significance. Misunderstood symbols like the tilde and the challenges of keyboard shortcuts add a humorous touch to the episode. Discover the quirky history behind the multiplication and division signs, and laugh along with the hosts as they share their tech mishaps!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Impact of Math Symbols
- Math symbols simplified complex equations, making them easier to write and teach.
- This shift from verbose language to symbols revolutionized math education.
Origin of the Equal Sign
- Robert Recorde, a royal physician, invented the equal sign because he was tired of writing "equals."
- His book, "The Whetstone of Wit," popularized the symbol.
Plus Sign Origins
- The plus sign originated from the Latin word "et" meaning "and."
- Though initially slow to gain acceptance, it eventually replaced other symbols like the Maltese cross.