Carl Friedrich Gauss
Carl Friedrich Gauss (April 30, 1777 - February 23, 1855) was a German mathematician, astronomer, and physicist, regarded as one of the greatest geniuses in the history of science. Known as the Prince of Mathematics, he made groundbreaking contributions to arithmetic, algebra, geometry, analysis, number theory, astronomy, and geodesy. At age 21, he published Disquisitiones Arithmeticae, a work that laid the foundations of modern number theory. He also developed the method of least squares, proved the fundamental theorem of algebra, and advanced the understanding of terrestrial magnetism. His precision and breadth of knowledge made him a central figure in the development of modern mathematics.
Quotes
- It is not knowledge, but the act of learning, not possession but the act of getting there, which grants the greatest enjoyment.
- Arc, amplitude, and curvature sustain a similar relation to each other as time, motion, and velocity, or as volume, mass, and density.
- I mean the word proof not in the sense of the lawyers, who set two half proofs equal to a whole one, but in the sense of a mathematician, where \(1/2\) proof \(= 0\), and it is demanded for proof that every doubt becomes impossible.
- Mathematics is the queen of sciences and number theory is the queen of mathematics. She often condescends to render service to astronomy and other natural sciences, but in all relations she is entitled to the first rank.
- If others would but reflect on mathematical truths as deeply and as continuously as I have, they would make my discoveries.