Meaning and Definition of Mathematics
Mathematics is the science of numbers and their operations, interrelations, combinations, generalizations, abstractions, space configurations, structure, measurement, transformations, and inferences. It can also be defined as an area of knowledge that includes such topics as numbers, formulas and related structures, shapes and the spaces in which they are contained, and quantities and their changes. Mathematics is an area of knowledge that includes such topics as numbers (arithmetic and number theory), formulas and related structures (algebra), shapes and the spaces in which they are contained (geometry), and quantities and their changes (calculus and analysis) Put in simpler terms, Mathematics is the science and study of quality, structure, space, and change.
Nature, scope and development of Mathematics -
Introduction: Mathematics plays an important role in accelerating the social, economical and technological growth of a nation. It is more so in India, as nation is rapidly moving towards globalization in all aspects. The world of today which leans more and more heavily on science and technology demands more and more mathematical knowledge on the part of its people. So, it is necessary to prepare the child with a strong base of mathematical knowledge to face the challenges of the modern technological society. Etymology: The term "Mathematics" is derived from two Greek words-
'Manthanein' means 'learning' 'Techne' means 'an art (or) technique' Mathematics means the art of learning related to disciplines (or) facilities. What is Mathematics? · The dictionary meaning of Mathematics is that, "It is the science of number (or) space" (OR) "The science of measurement, quantity and magnitude"
· According to "New English Dictionary" "Mathematics – in a strict sense – is the abstract science which investigates deductively the conclusions implicit in the elementary conception of spatial and numerical relations"
· In Hindi, we call Mathematics as "Ganitha"- which means the science of calculations.
Mathematics is a systematized, organized and exact branch of science. Also, Mathematics is the science of quantity, measurement and spatial relations. Mathematics – in words of different authors :- -Kant: "Mathematics is the indispensable instrument of all physical resources." -C.F.Gauss: "Mathematics is the queen of science and Arithmetic is the queen of all Mathematics." -Bacon: "Mathematics is the gateway and key to all science."
Benjamin Franklin: "What science can there be nobler, more excellent, more useful for men, more admirable, high and demonstrative than that of Mathematics?" -Locke: "Mathematics is a way to settle in the mind a habit of reasoning."
-J.B.Shaw: "Mathematic is engaged, in fact, in the profound study of art and the expression of beauty." Though there are innumerable definitions of Mathematics, none of them is comprehensive enough to bring out the meaning of Mathematics full. However, each definition throws insight in to one (or) more aspects of Mathematics.
Meaning & definitions of Mathematics: ØMathematics is a systematized, organized and exact branch of science. ØMathematic deals with quantitative facts, relationships as well as with problems involving space and form.
It is a logical study of shape, arrangement and quantity. ØMathematics is not to be considered only as 'number work' (or) 'computation', but it is more about forming generalizations, seeing relationships and developing logical thinking & reasoning. ØMathematics should be shown as a way of thinking, an art (or) form of beauty and as human achievement. ØThe National Policy on Education (1986) states, 'Mathematics should be visualized as the vehicle to train a child to think, reason, analyses and to articulate logically."
Mathematics helps in solving problems of life that needs numeration and calculation. It provides opportunity for the intellectual gymnastic of the man's inherent powers. It is an exact science and involves high cognitive abilities and powers.
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