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Summary:
Calculation of the square root of natural numbers used to be a part of mathematics taught at elementary schools. However nowadays, we prefer calculators to our heads and the simple algorithm for square roots has been almost forgotten. The aim of this article is therefore to revive this art and moreover to show three methods: school-wise, Chinese and Indian. Before we recall the algorithms, try to invent your own way of calculation of square roots!
References:
[1] Bailey, D. H., Borwein, J. M.: Ancient Indian Square Roots: An Exercise in Forensic Paleo-Mathematics. anuscript, 2011, dostupné na http://www.davidhbailey.com/dhbpapers/india-sqrt.pdf MR 2988227
[2] Juškevič, A. P.: Dějiny matematiky ve středověku. 1. vydání, Academia, Praha 1978. MR 0525203
[3] Parakh, A.: Aryabhata's Root Extraction Methods. Indian Journal of History of Science 42.2 (2007), 149-161. MR 2343726
[4] Wang, L., Needham, J.: Horner's Method in Chinese Mathematics: Its Origin in the Root-Extraction Procedures of Han Dynasty. T'Oung Pao 43(5) (1955), 345-401. DOI 10.1163/156853254X00146
[5] Škarda Č.: Aritmetika včera a dnes. (www stránka s popisy algoritmů základních aritmetických operací), http://bimbo.fjfi.cvut.cz/~soc
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