The Greek mathematician Hipparchus is considered the founder of trigonometry.
Hipparchus: The Father of Trigonometry
Hipparchus, who lived around 140 BC, created the first known table of chords. Although these original tables have not survived, historical accounts claim that he wrote twelve books of tables of chords. This achievement solidified his place as the founder of trigonometry.
Key Contributions of Hipparchus:
- Table of Chords: Hipparchus's development of a table of chords, which is an early form of a trigonometric table, was a crucial step in the development of trigonometry. These tables allowed him to calculate relationships between angles and sides of triangles.
- Systematic Approach: Before Hipparchus, there were some basic observations about trigonometry, but he formalized the study of trigonometry with his detailed and systematic work.
- Foundation for Future Work: Hipparchus' work served as a foundation for future mathematicians who expanded on his research and developed the trigonometry we use today.
Why Hipparchus is the Founder
The evidence strongly suggests that Hipparchus' systematic creation of tables of chords marks the birth of trigonometry as a distinct area of mathematical study. Although there were related ideas previously, he is credited as the founder due to this significant development and documentation. His tables, though lost, are still referenced as essential to the understanding of trigonometry's early evolution.
| Contributor | Key Contribution |
|---|---|
| Hipparchus | Created the first known table of chords; wrote twelve books on these tables. |
In conclusion, while other mathematicians contributed to the field later, Hipparchus is considered the inventor of trigonometry due to his foundational work with tables of chords.
