Number System

Transcript

Number SystemA Number system is a writing system for expressing numbers Its primary purpose is to allow for counting and determining the size of a collection. How is a Number System formed? This is done by making a one-to-one mapping (matching one item to one symbol/name/object in the sequence) between the objects being counted and the number system's standard sequence. Forms of Number Systems Historically, number systems have taken three main forms: Physical Objects: Using items like sticks, pebbles, or even body parts. Names: Using a standard sequence of sounds or names, like the letters of the alphabet ('a', 'b', 'c'...). Written Symbols: Using a set of written marks or symbols. Numerals The symbols that occur in a written number system are called numerals. For example, in the Hindu number system (the one we use today), the symbols 0, 1, 5, 36, and 193 are all numerals. Historically, a number system made of written symbols almost always went "hand in hand" with a number system made of names, which is true for our modern system as well. The Main Challenge Because there is no end to numbers, the fundamental challenge is to create a number system that is unending but also easy and convenient to count with. The text explains that while a system like "using sticks" is unending, it becomes very inconvenient for large numbers.