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CAT MANIA |
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Vedic Maths |
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What is Vedic Mathematics? It is an ancient technique, which simplifies multiplication, divisibility, complex numbers, squaring, cubing, square and cube roots. Even recurring decimals and auxiliary fractions can be handled by Vedic mathematics. Vedic Mathematics forms part of Jyotish Shastra which is one of the six parts of Vedangas. The Jyotish Shastra or Astronomy is made up of three parts called Skandas. A Skanda means the big branch of a tree shooting out of the trunk. Who Brought Vedic Maths to limelight? The subject was revived largely due to the efforts of Jagadguru Swami Bharathikrishna Tirthaji of Govardhan Peeth, Puri Jaganath (1884-1960). Having researched the subject for years, even his efforts would have gone in vain but for the enterprise of some disciples who took down notes during his last days.
What is the basis of Vedic Mathematics? The basis of Vedic mathematics, are the 16 sutras, which attribute a set of qualities to a number or a group of numbers. The ancient Hindu scientists (Rishis) of Bharat in 16 Sutras (Phrases) and 120 words laid down simple steps for solving all mathematical problems in easy to follow 2 or 3 steps. Vedic Mental or one or two line methods can be used effectively for solving divisions, reciprocals, factorisation, HCF, squares and square roots, cubes and cube roots, algebraic equations, multiple simultaneous equations, quadratic equations, cubic equations, biquadratic equations, higher degree equations, differential calculus, Partial fractions, Integrations, Pythogorus theoram, Apollonius Theoram, Analytical Conics and so on. What is the speciality of Vedic Mathematics? Vedic scholars did not use figures for big numbers in their numerical notation. Instead, they preferred to use the Sanskrit alphabets, with each alphabet constituting a number. Several mantras, in fact, denote numbers; that includes the famed Gayatri mantra, which adds to 108 when decoded.
How important is Speed? How fast your can solve a problem is very important. There is a race against time in all the competitions. Only those people having fast calculation ability will be able to win the race. Time saved can be used to solve more problems or used for difficult problems.
Is it useful today? Given the initial training in modern maths in today's schools, students will be able to comprehend the logic of Vedic mathematics after they have reached the 8th standard. It will be of interest to every one but more so to younger students keen to make their mark in competitive entrance exams. India's past could well help them make it in today's world. It is amazing how with the help of 16 Sutras and 16 sub-sutras, the Vedic seers were able to mentally calculate complex mathematical problems.
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