MIP1501 Assignment
2 (COMPLETE
ANSWERS) 2024
(792113) - DUE 15 June
2024 ;100% TRUSTED
workings,
explanations and
soluti ons.
ADMIN
[COMPANY NAME]
, Question 1 (24) 1.1. Compare the Egyptian and the Babylonian numeration
systems in terms of the number of symbols, functionality, and possible uses.
(10) 1.2. Write down three similarities and three differences of the
numerations listed in 1.1. (6) 1.3. Are these numeration systems (see 1.1.) still
used today? Do your own research and then provide reasons for your answer.
(4) 1.4. Do we still use the Roman numeration system today? If so, provide
examples from your own environment. (4)
1.1. The Egyptian numeration system was a decimal system that primarily used hieroglyphs
representing powers of 10 up to a million. It employed seven different symbols: a stroke for one,
a heel bone for ten, a coil of rope for 100, a lotus plant for 1,000, a finger for 10,000, a tadpole
for 100,000, and a god with upraised arms for one million. On the other hand, the Babylonian
numeration system was also a positional system but was sexagesimal, meaning it was based on
the number 60. It used two symbols, a vertical wedge for one and a horizontal wedge for ten, and
positional notation to represent larger numbers. Both systems were functional for their respective
societies' needs, with the Egyptian system being more suitable for record-keeping and trade,
while the Babylonian system was effective for calculations involving fractions and time.
1.2. Similarities:
1. Both the Egyptian and Babylonian numeration systems were positional systems, meaning the
value of a symbol depended on its position in the number.
2. They both contributed to the development of mathematics and served as precursors to modern
numeral systems.
3. Both systems were foundational to the societies that used them, aiding in commerce, record-
keeping, and other administrative tasks.
Differences:
1. The Egyptian system was decimal, based on powers of 10, while the Babylonian system was
sexagesimal, based on powers of 60.
2. Egyptian numerals were represented using hieroglyphs, whereas Babylonian numerals were
written using cuneiform.
