History of Hindu Mathematics: A Source Book v2.c17.s1.71

v2.c17.s1.71

**Coefficient.** In Hindu algebra there is no systematic use of any special term for the coefficient. Ordinarily, the power of the unknown is mentioned when the reference is to the coefficient of that power. In explanation of similar use by Brahmagupta his commentator Pṛthûdakasvâmî writes “the number (*aṅka*) which is the coefficient of the square of the unknown is called the ‘square’ and the number which forms the coefficient of the (simple) unknown is called ‘the unknown quantity.’ ”¹ However, occasional use of a technical term is also met with. Brahmagupta once calls the coefficient *saṁkhyâ*² (number) and on several other occasions *guṇaka*, or *guṇakâra* (multiplier).³ Pṛthûdakasvâmî (860) calls it *aṅka*⁴ (number) or *prakṛti* (multiplier). These terms reappear in the works of Śrîpati (1039)⁵ and Bhâskara II (1150).⁶ The former also used *rûpa* for the same purpose.⁷