The origin of the term comes from the ancients. The concept becomes more precise with the use of variables in mathematics. Algorithm in the sense of what is now used by computers appeared as soon as first mechanical engines were invented.
An algorithm (pronounced AL-go-rith-um) is a procedure or formula for solving a problem. The word derives from the name of the mathematician, Mohammed ibn-Musa al-Khwarizmi, who was part of the royal court in Baghdad and who lived from about 780 to 850. Al-Khwarizmi's work is the likely source for the word algebra as well.
Algebra, the origin of variables: The work of the ancient Greek geometers, Persian mathematician Al-Khwarizmi -- often considered as the "father of algebra", Chinese and Western European mathematicans culiminated in Leibniz' notion of the "calculus ratiocinator", an algebra of logic.
Algorithms by the ancients: Euclid has created an algorithm that has been given its name. This algo calculates the greatest common divisor, here is it:
- divide the number a by b, the remainder is r
- replace a by b
- replace b by r
- continue until a can't be more divided. In this case, a is the gcd.
An algorithm (pronounced AL-go-rith-um) is a procedure or formula for solving a problem. The word derives from the name of the mathematician, Mohammed ibn-Musa al-Khwarizmi, who was part of the royal court in Baghdad and who lived from about 780 to 850. Al-Khwarizmi's work is the likely source for the word algebra as well.
Algebra, the origin of variables: The work of the ancient Greek geometers, Persian mathematician Al-Khwarizmi -- often considered as the "father of algebra", Chinese and Western European mathematicans culiminated in Leibniz' notion of the "calculus ratiocinator", an algebra of logic.
Algorithms by the ancients: Euclid has created an algorithm that has been given its name. This algo calculates the greatest common divisor, here is it:
- divide the number a by b, the remainder is r
- replace a by b
- replace b by r
- continue until a can't be more divided. In this case, a is the gcd.
- The algorithm of Archimedes gives an approximation of the Pi number.
- Eratosthenes has defined an algorithim for retrieving prime numbers.
- Averroès (1126-1198) was using algorithmic methods for calculations.
- Adelard de Bath (12 th) introduces the algorismus term, from Al-Khwarizmi.