Here, we count with me: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 6, 7, 9, T, 11, 12, 12, 12, what is that? Do you write 10 in “Zero”? fair enough. Zero is said to be the foundation of our number system. Mathematician Tobias Danzig once called it “development in which modern science, industry, or commercial progress is unthinkable.” However, it changed in 1947 when a mathematician James Foster layout a system that works like us in everything. He called it a “numerical system without zero symbol.”
Think of the familiar system as a series of boxes. Up to nine loose objects can be left unboxed. However, if the tenth object arrives, you need to pack 10 in a box. If this occurs, you will use a zero to show you a loose object. Numbers 30 means three boxes of 10, and there are no additional objects.
This principle continues. For example, in 407, zero indicates that there is no loose 10. They were all in hundreds of boxes.
Foster’s system may ask you to wait before boxing. Loosen 10 objects and write them as T. Thus, the other is not boxed in addition to the two boxed 10 or 2Ts, in addition to the two box -ups. (The APTER name may be “Twentyten”.) Only another object (31) requires boxing.
This always has a loose object. Therefore, there is no need for zero.
This is not a complete reconstruction of the number, unlike the Rome, Mayan, or Inupiac figures. Instead, it is an eerie parallel universe. An arbitrary number without ZEROS holds the old appearance (1,776 is still 1,776), but the number of Zeros is forced to get a new name.
The number 20 is 1T (called “10 teens”).
Similarly, 106 is T6 (10S, 6 units, 10 tea 6).
3,090 is 2T8T (called “20 million 180 people”).
Is it strange? yes. Are you worried? yes. Is it logically effective? Again, yes. As Foster pointed out in 1947, his system challenged Zero’s “essential personality in the easy -to -operate number system.” I still want zero. But strictly speaking, we don’t need it.
I spend a while in the Foster world. I guarantee that you are grateful immediately.
Puzzle from the world without zero
- How many years is it now? What kind of century will it be about that?
- Is “6 -digit salary” more or less desirable than old systems?
- Maps a different method of zero -free culture. Will the town commemorate the 111st anniversary? Which mileage is the most exciting for a car mileage? And do you care about the Wiltcombalen, which once won 9T points in basketball games?
Are you looking for an answer? Go ScienceNews.org/puzzle-swers。 The science -themed crossword and mathematics puzzles are released alternately. We want to hear your thoughts. Please email to puzzless@sciencenews.org.
