Difference between revisions of "Zero"

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The development of a concept and notation for 0, probably in ancient Indian civilization, and its subsequent transmission to Europe via the Persians and Arabs, was fundamental to the success of western mathematics in fields beyond [[geometry]].  It has suprisingly much relevance due to its significance in [[positional number system]]s.  For instance, normal commercial interactions might be seriously slowed if cashiers had to make change on a purchase of LXIV dollars with bills marked L, X, V and I when handed XC dollars.
 
The development of a concept and notation for 0, probably in ancient Indian civilization, and its subsequent transmission to Europe via the Persians and Arabs, was fundamental to the success of western mathematics in fields beyond [[geometry]].  It has suprisingly much relevance due to its significance in [[positional number system]]s.  For instance, normal commercial interactions might be seriously slowed if cashiers had to make change on a purchase of LXIV dollars with bills marked L, X, V and I when handed XC dollars.
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== See also ==
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* [[Constant]]
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* [[Number theory]]
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{{stub}}
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[[Category:Constants]]

Revision as of 10:58, 29 July 2006

Zero, or 0, is the name traditionally given to the additive identity in number systems.

The development of a concept and notation for 0, probably in ancient Indian civilization, and its subsequent transmission to Europe via the Persians and Arabs, was fundamental to the success of western mathematics in fields beyond geometry. It has suprisingly much relevance due to its significance in positional number systems. For instance, normal commercial interactions might be seriously slowed if cashiers had to make change on a purchase of LXIV dollars with bills marked L, X, V and I when handed XC dollars.

See also

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