, MIP1501-ASSIGNMENT 02
UNIQUE NUMBER – 792113
Closing date: 15 June 2024
Question 1 (24)
1.1. Compare the Egyptian and the Babylonian numeration systems in terms
of the number of symbols, functionality, and possible uses. (10)
The Egyptian numeration system utilized a combination of symbols
representing powers of 10, such as a single stroke for 1, a heel bone for 10, a
coil of rope for 100, and so on. The system was additive, meaning that the
value of each symbol was simply added together to determine the total
value. It had a limited number of symbols and lacked a symbol for the
number zero.
On the other hand, the Babylonian numeration system was based on the
concept of positional notation, where the value of a symbol depended on its
position within a number. It utilized a combination of symbols for 1, 10, and
60, and was the first to use a symbol for zero. This system was more versatile
and allowed for the representation of larger numbers.
In terms of functionality, the Egyptian system was primarily used for
counting and basic arithmetic, while the Babylonian system was more
versatile and could be used for complex calculations, mathematics, trade,
and record-keeping.
In summary, the Babylonian numeration system had more symbols, was
more versatile and functional, and had broader possible uses compared to
the Egyptian numeration system.
1.2. Write down three similarities and three differences of the numerations
listed in 1.1. (6)
Similarities:
1. Both the Roman and Mayan numeration systems use a combination of
symbols to represent numbers.
2. Both the Roman and Babylonian numeration systems have unique symbols
to represent certain numbers, such as the Roman "V" for 5 and the
Babylonian " " for 10.
UNIQUE NUMBER – 792113
Closing date: 15 June 2024
Question 1 (24)
1.1. Compare the Egyptian and the Babylonian numeration systems in terms
of the number of symbols, functionality, and possible uses. (10)
The Egyptian numeration system utilized a combination of symbols
representing powers of 10, such as a single stroke for 1, a heel bone for 10, a
coil of rope for 100, and so on. The system was additive, meaning that the
value of each symbol was simply added together to determine the total
value. It had a limited number of symbols and lacked a symbol for the
number zero.
On the other hand, the Babylonian numeration system was based on the
concept of positional notation, where the value of a symbol depended on its
position within a number. It utilized a combination of symbols for 1, 10, and
60, and was the first to use a symbol for zero. This system was more versatile
and allowed for the representation of larger numbers.
In terms of functionality, the Egyptian system was primarily used for
counting and basic arithmetic, while the Babylonian system was more
versatile and could be used for complex calculations, mathematics, trade,
and record-keeping.
In summary, the Babylonian numeration system had more symbols, was
more versatile and functional, and had broader possible uses compared to
the Egyptian numeration system.
1.2. Write down three similarities and three differences of the numerations
listed in 1.1. (6)
Similarities:
1. Both the Roman and Mayan numeration systems use a combination of
symbols to represent numbers.
2. Both the Roman and Babylonian numeration systems have unique symbols
to represent certain numbers, such as the Roman "V" for 5 and the
Babylonian " " for 10.
