How Imaginary Numbers Were Invented

Veritasium・2 minutes read

Mathematics evolved to predict planetary motions and manage commerce, with the challenge of the cubic equation leading to the creation of imaginary numbers and the general solution now well-known. The development of complex numbers revolutionized physics, leading to breakthroughs in quantum mechanics and reshaping our understanding of atomic behavior, chemistry, and physics.

Insights

  • Imaginary numbers were created to solve the cubic equation, showing that mathematical concepts can be developed to tackle complex problems that initially seemed unsolvable.
  • The introduction of complex numbers, including negative and imaginary ones, revolutionized mathematics and physics, leading to breakthroughs in quantum physics and transforming our understanding of atomic behavior, chemistry, and physics.

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Recent questions

  • What is the historical significance of the cubic equation?

    The cubic equation has a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations, where mathematicians struggled for over 4,000 years to find a general solution. The challenge of solving the cubic equation led to the creation of imaginary numbers, as seen in the works of Luca Pacioli in 1494. This mathematical problem played a crucial role in the development of algebra and the understanding of complex numbers, paving the way for advancements in various fields such as physics and quantum mechanics.

  • How did ancient mathematicians approach problem-solving?

    Ancient mathematicians utilized visual methods to solve equations, as seen in their attempts to tackle the cubic equation. Their focus on geometric interpretations and practical applications hindered the acknowledgment of negative numbers, which were not initially recognized due to their real-world implications. Despite facing challenges in solving complex mathematical problems, these early mathematicians laid the foundation for modern algebraic techniques and the development of new mathematical concepts.

  • Who were the key figures in solving the cubic equation?

    Several notable mathematicians made significant contributions to solving the cubic equation throughout history. Persian mathematician Omar Khayyam identified 19 cubic equations with positive coefficients, while Scipione del Ferro and Niccolo Fontana Tartaglia independently solved depressed cubics. The challenges faced by mathematicians like Cardano in deriving geometric solutions led to the introduction of complex numbers and the concept of square roots of negatives, ultimately revolutionizing mathematical thinking and paving the way for further advancements in algebra.

  • How did the introduction of complex numbers impact physics?

    The development of complex numbers, including imaginary and square roots of negatives, played a crucial role in revolutionizing physics. Bombelli's introduction of a new type of number involving the square root of negative one helped solve complex mathematical problems, such as Cardano's cubic equation. The incorporation of imaginary numbers in the Schrödinger equation by Erwin Schrödinger led to groundbreaking discoveries in quantum physics, reshaping our understanding of atomic behavior and forming the basis of modern chemistry and physics.

  • What role did mathematics play in shaping our understanding of the world?

    Mathematics originated as a tool to quantify the world, predict planetary motions, and manage commerce, showcasing its fundamental role in various aspects of human life. The historical journey of solving the cubic equation and the development of complex numbers highlight the evolution of mathematical thinking and its impact on fields beyond mathematics. From ancient civilizations struggling with mathematical problems to modern physicists utilizing complex numbers in quantum mechanics, mathematics continues to shape our understanding of the universe and drive scientific progress.

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Summary

00:00

Evolution of Mathematics: From Cubic Equations

  • Mathematics originated to quantify the world, predict planetary motions, and manage commerce.
  • The challenge of solving the cubic equation led to the creation of imaginary numbers.
  • Luca Pacioli published "Summa de Arithmetica" in 1494, discussing the cubic equation.
  • Ancient civilizations struggled to solve the cubic equation for over 4,000 years.
  • The general solution to the cubic equation is well-known today.
  • Ancient mathematicians used visual methods to solve equations.
  • Negative numbers were not acknowledged by early mathematicians due to their real-world focus.
  • Persian mathematician Omar Khayyam identified 19 cubic equations with positive coefficients.
  • Scipione del Ferro solved depressed cubics secretly to secure his job.
  • Niccolo Fontana Tartaglia solved the depressed cubic after challenging Antonio Fior.

14:30

Evolution of Complex Numbers in Mathematics and Physics

  • Cardano struggles with a geometric derivation, leading to a paradox involving negative area in a square.
  • Square roots of negatives are introduced as a concept to indicate the absence of a solution in certain mathematical problems.
  • Bombelli introduces a new type of number, involving the square root of negative one, to solve Cardano's cubic equation.
  • The development of complex numbers emerges from the need to solve mathematical problems beyond traditional geometry.
  • Schrödinger incorporates imaginary numbers in the Schrödinger equation, leading to a breakthrough in quantum physics.
  • The use of complex numbers in physics revolutionizes our understanding of atomic behavior and forms the basis of chemistry and physics.
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