Coolmath’s Blog

November 21st November 21, 2008

               So, what is mathematics?

The word “mathematics” came from Greek μάθημα (máthēma), and means simply “learning” or “study”. Thus, all what kids in Ancient Greek did at schools was only math. And we are complaining?!  But then it, probably, was much easier than now.  All those guys, who invented calculus and trigonometry, yet weren’t roaming around and poisoning those kids’ existence. The focus, probably, was more on the basic math operations, such an addition, subtraction, and company.  Let’s talk about addition. By the end of elementary school, every kid is considered an expert in it, at list within one hundred.  However, I bet, you haven’t thought about some possibilities of addition before. Can you answer this, for example?

1+1=

2+2=

 Some will say “yes”, but the others will state “it depends”. “On what, for God’s sake? “ – You ask. Oh, it can depend on various things. I knew little boy, who once noticed that if you add one fox to one chicken, you most likely will not get two animals. I’ve also heard that if you mix two cups of water with two cups of alcohol, you will never receive four cups of mixture. I haven’t tried it yet, but you are welcome. So, the answer may depend on quality of the components. Can you think of something else?

Hello, World! November 21, 2008

       The word “mathematics” raises very various emotions. Unfortunately, most people will rather make a face than feel curiosity and excitement.  They will call it isolated, inhuman, boring, useless, unbearable,  hopeless, terrifying!  OK!  I have to admit that there are some wild beasts in the math woods, and even some scary skeletons in the closets. But I promise, I do, you will not meet any of these on this blog! So, those of you who just accidently clicked on this site, please, please, do not run away! Especially, those of you who are not “math persons” do not elope because I want to tell you something. I think, you feel so bad because you don’t know her. You, probably, have never been properly introduced to her. Let me try to start it over. Please,

Allow me present to you

her Majesty the Mathematics. 

   Oh, my! I feel so biased, but I can’t help it. There is so much feminine in it. She is expected and unpredictable, simple and enigmatic, reliant and independent, not to mention her beauty. You never know how young she is, and she always surrounded by men. You must give her chance to capture you because it’s such a pleasure!