Old Babylonian Mathematics and Plimpton 322 - The World's First Exact Trigonometric Table

Explore a groundbreaking theory on the true purpose of Plimpton 322, the renowned Old Babylonian mathematical clay tablet, in this 21-minute video lecture. Discover how this ancient artifact may have been the world's first and only exact trigonometric table, utilizing a ratio-based approach rather than angles. Delve into the Old Babylonian scribes' unique perspective on triangles and their concept of ukullu, shared with ancient Egyptians. Learn how Plimpton 322 enabled precise calculations of triangle ratios without relying on square roots. Gain insights into this revolutionary understanding of ancient mathematics and its implications for the history of trigonometry.