Mathematics in Ancient and Medieval India c5.s6.8

c5.s6.8

In this way a big member was expressed by 1. 41. 33. 59. 3. 45. This obviously involves an idea of place-value. The numerical system is not very happy, because, a comparatively greater amounts of repetition is unavoidable for obtaining a number below fiftynine. In many cases, the numerical value of a symbol had to be determined from the context.¹ For example, in certain tablet 71 is represented by symbols of 1.10.1 i.e. 1 × 60 + 10 + 1 = 71. The number 171½ was represented by symbols of 2.50. 1. ½ i. e. 2 × 60 + 50 + 1 + ½ = 171½. The symbol for 1.12 may be expressed as 1.12.0 = 4320 or as 1.12 = 72 or as 1; 12 = 1⅕ etc. written sexagesimally.