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🎻intro to humanities review

key term - Base-60 number system

Citation:

Definition

The base-60 number system, also known as sexagesimal, is a numeral system that uses 60 as its base. This system was used by the ancient Sumerians and later adopted by other Mesopotamian civilizations for various purposes, including mathematics, astronomy, and timekeeping. Its influence is evident today in the way we measure time (60 seconds in a minute, 60 minutes in an hour) and in the division of circles into 360 degrees.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The base-60 system allows for easy division by many numbers such as 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, making calculations convenient for trade and commerce.
  2. The Sumerians likely developed this system due to their counting methods based on both fingers (base-10) and the joints of fingers (base-12), leading to a combination that favored 60.
  3. In addition to timekeeping, the base-60 number system was fundamental in creating geometrical concepts, particularly in measuring angles.
  4. Mesopotamian scribes used clay tablets to perform calculations using the base-60 system, which influenced their records in trade and resource management.
  5. The legacy of the base-60 number system persists today in our measurements of time and angles, showcasing its enduring significance in mathematics.

Review Questions

  • How did the base-60 number system facilitate trade and commerce in Mesopotamia?
    • The base-60 number system facilitated trade and commerce in Mesopotamia by providing a convenient method for calculations. Its divisibility by multiple smaller integers allowed merchants to easily divide goods into equal portions or assess prices without complex fractions. This efficiency supported the growth of trade networks and helped standardize transactions across different regions.
  • What role did the base-60 number system play in the development of astronomical knowledge in Mesopotamian civilizations?
    • The base-60 number system significantly influenced the development of astronomical knowledge in Mesopotamian civilizations. Astronomers utilized this system for calculating celestial events and movements, leading to accurate calendars and predictions. The division of circles into 360 degrees is a direct legacy of this numerical framework, allowing for precise measurements in astronomy that are still used today.
  • Evaluate the impact of the base-60 number system on modern mathematical practices and how it reflects the ingenuity of Mesopotamian cultures.
    • The impact of the base-60 number system on modern mathematical practices is profound, particularly in how we measure time and angles. Its design reflects the ingenuity of Mesopotamian cultures, who created a system that combined practicality with complexity. By influencing contemporary timekeeping and geometry, it showcases how ancient innovations continue to shape our understanding and organization of daily life. This connection illustrates the continuity of mathematical thought from ancient civilizations to present-day society.