EGYPTIAN MATHEMATICS RUC.dk（埃及数学RUC.dk）.pdfVIP

EGYPTIAN MATHEMATICS Contribution to The Cambridge History of Science The primary references of the term “Egyptian mathematics” are the computational techniques and the underlying mathematical knowledge attested in Pharaonic written sources. Secondary references are, on one hand, the corresponding techniques etc. as known from Demotic sources; on the other, the geometrical procedures used in Pharaonic and subsequent architecture and visual arts. Greek mathematics produced in Hellenistic Egypt is thus not included. Accordingly, all dates in the following are BC unless AD is indicated explicitly. The sources The most important written sources for Pharaonic mathematics are the Rhind Mathematical Papyrus (henceforth RMP)1 2 and the Moscow Mathematical Papyrus (MMP). 1 Two editions with ample discussion exist: T. Eric Peet, The Rhind Mathematical Papyrus, British Museum 10057 and 10058. Introduction, Transcription, Translation and Commentary (London: University Press of Liverpool, 1923). Arnold Buffum Chace, The Rhind Mathematical Papyrus. British Museum 10057 and 10058. Volume I (with the assistance of Henry Parker Manning). Free Translation and Commentary. Bibliography of Egyptian Mathematics by R.C. Archibald. Volume II (with Ludlow Bull Henry Parker Manning). Photographs, Transcription, Transliteration, Literal Translation. Bibliography of Egyptian and Babylonian Mathematics (Supplement), by R. C. Archibald. The Mathematical Leather Roll in the British Museum, by S. R. K. Glan- ville. Oberlin, Ohio: Mathematical Association of America, 1927–29. (the literal translation is indeed very literal; it is used in all quotations below from RMP).