The Pythagorean theorem, the well-known geometric theorem that in a right triangle the sum of the squares of the legs is equal to the square of the hypotenuse, or in familiar algebraic notation - a2 + b2 =с2, should be known not only by every student, but also by any self-respecting educated person. This article gives a definition of the Pythagorean theorem. It also briefly describes the history of its creation.
History of the Pythagorean theorem
The definition that became the basis of mathematical knowledge has long been associated with the name of the Greek mathematician-philosopher Pythagoras.
According to the Syrian historian Iamblich (circa 250-330 AD), the scientist developed his famous theorem for a long time. His scientific path began after Pythagoras met the mathematicians Thales of Miletus and Anaximander and became their student. Then he went to Egypt about 535 BC. to continue their research. It was captured during an invasion in 525. BC e. Cambyses II, King of Persia, and taken to Babylon.
According to the assumptions of some historians, Pythagoras even managed to visit India, and then returned to the Mediterranean coast again. The scientist soon settled in the Italian Croton and created a school, which in our time would be more logical to call a monastery. This is how Pythagoreanism was born - a spiritual and religious doctrine, all the followers of which adhered to strict vows of secrecy. All the results of new mathematical research carried out over several centuries have been attributed to his name.
The history of the Pythagorean theorem states that the first proof is not due to Pythagoras. It is likely that he did not prove the theorem, which nevertheless bears his name.
Some scholars believe that the first proof was shown in the drawing. It is interesting to note that similar evidence drawings were independently created and later found in several different cultures. So, how does the definition of a right triangle and the Pythagorean theorem sound? What does the last math formula look like?
Pythagorean theorem: definition
First, let's figure out what a right triangle is. Its distinguishing feature is a right angle equal to 90 degrees. Actually, for this he was nicknamed rectangular!
Visual demonstration of the Pythagorean theorem fully confirms the original proof of the ancient mathematical statement. So what does the picture show? Area of a square built on the hypotenuseof a right triangle is equal to the sum of the areas of the squares that are built on the legs of a right triangle. From this it follows that in a right triangle the sum of the squares of the legs is equal to the square of the hypotenuse. Formula: a2 + b2=c2.
Conclusion
For over 4 thousand years, the Pythagorean theorem has been the basis of mathematical and geometric science. Interestingly, there are currently approximately 367 different proofs of it. Including the Greek mathematician Pappus of Alexandria (whose peak was in 320 AD), the Arab physician and mathematician Tabit ibn Kurra (who lived around 836-901), the Italian artist-inventor Leonardo da Vinci (years life: 1452-1519) and even US President James Garfield (1831-1881).
Nevertheless, every person who associates himself with mathematics and scientific activity should know the original history of the emergence and definition of the Pythagorean theorem. After all, as you know, there is no future without knowledge of the past, and the present is impossible without knowledge of mathematics!
