Topic of Research Seminar: Dividing without dividing, the Bakshali Manuscript, a bit of Sumerian mathematics, and the Newton-Raphson Method
Abstract: This talk will require only 12th-grade mathematics. The modern Newton-Raphson method can be derived using the concept of “the derivative” and simple algebra. We travel to many places when we apply this method to simple functions. However, we will dive only into three such realms. Firstly, we will see how modern computers use the method to divide. Learning to divide means being able to divide without dividing. Secondly, the Bakshali Manuscript, one of the most important documents in the history of mathematics, uses an algorithm suggested by this method. The document was discovered in Bakshali, near Peshawar. This history is ours! Lastly, the Sumerian mathematicians also unknowingly used this method to compute. The talk blends history, mathematics, and applications. Most of the talk is elementary. However, some mathematics will be introduced in the lecture. Pre-reqs to enjoy the talk are:
- The derivative of 1/x is -1/x^2
- The derivative of x^2 is 2x
But these are not really needed!
Subject Field of Topic: Mathematical Physics
Name of Speaker: Dr. Sarmad Abbasi
Email of Speaker: [email protected]
Date and Venue: March 20, 2023, at 1500 hrs, CR 202, New Building, School of Natural Sciences (SNS), NUST Islamabad Campus