The 17 Equations That Changed The Course Of Humanity

[xchrom]

http://www.businessinsider.com/17-equations-that-changed-the-world-2013-1?op=1



***SNIP

The Pythagorean Theorem

Importance: The equation is at the core of geometry, links it with algebra, and is the foundation of trigonometry. Without it, accurate surveying, mapmaking, and navigation would be impossible.


***SNIP

The logarithm and its identities

Importance: Logarithms were revolutionary, making calculation faster and more accurate for engineers and astronomers. That's less important with the advent of computers, but they're still an essential to scientists

***SNIP

The fundamental theorem of calculus

Importance: According to Stewart, "More than any other mathematical technique, it has created the modern world." Calculus is essential in our understanding of how to measure solids, curves, and areas. It is the foundation of many natural laws, and the source of differential equations.

Read more: http://www.businessinsider.com/17-equations-that-changed-the-world-2013-1?op=1#ixzz2Ic1rpSeZ

[liberal N proud]

1. Now my brain hurts

So much math so early on a Monday morning.

Some of those I have never heard of though, very interesting.

[hobbit709]

2. I know about 12 of them.

And some of them made my brain hurt when I was learning them.

[Victor_c3]

3. As a chemist, I was expecting some chemical equations

like the haber process. But I can't argue with the author's logic and choice in selecting those math equations.

[longship]

4. I love Ian Stewart's work.

This book is a gem. When Stewart was promoting it on a variety of podcasts I knew I had to buy it.

My education is physics (BS degree) and I have taught math at both the high school and college levels.

This book rocks. Ian Stewart has a way of bringing complex topics to a level that non-mathematical people can understand. But, since this is about equations, it would be best if you actually understand what an equation is. So you probably should have at least taken algebra at least once in your life.

I love this book and can recommend it.

Equation 17 is Black-Scholes Option Pricing, the equation that crashed the world's economy in 2008. That chapter alone is worth the price of admission.

R&K

[eallen]

5. The third one is wrong

It's the definition of derivative, not the fundamental theorem of calculus.

[coalition_unwilling]

6. Does 'Gore = Bush' count? 1,000,000+ dead Iraqis and Afghans are asking. - n/t

[Nye Bevan]

7. That is NOT the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus!

That is simply the definition if a derivative!

Sloppy article (not blaming the OP).