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Descartes' theory provided the basis for the calculus of Newton and Leibniz, by applying infinitesimal calculus to the tangent line problem, thus permitting the evolution of that branch of modern mathematics. This appears even more astounding considering that the work was just intended as an example to his Discours de la méthode pour bien conduire sa raison, et chercher la verité dans les sciences (Discourse on the Method to Rightly Conduct the Reason and Search for the Truth in Sciences, better known under the shortened title Discours de la méthode). Descartes' rule of signs is also a commonly used method in modern mathematics to determine possible quantities of positive and negative zeros of a function. Descartes created analytic geometry, and discovered the law of conservation of momentum. He outlined his views on the universe in his Principles of Philosophy. Descartes also made contributions to the field of optics. He showed by using geometric construction and the law of refraction (also known as Descartes' law) that the angular radius of a rainbow is 42 degrees (i.e. the angle subtended at the eye by the edge of the rainbow and the ray passing from the sun through the rainbow's centre is 42°). He also independently discovered the law of reflection, and his essay on optics was the first published mention of this law.[7] One of Descartes most enduring legacies was his development of Cartesian geometry, the algebraic system taught in schools today. He also created exponential notation, indicated by numbers written in what is now referred to as superscript.

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Related Questions

Who discovered co-ordinates?

Rene Descartes first developed the mathematics of coordinate geometry.


Who was often called the father of modern mathematics because he created analytic geometry and the Cartesian coordinate system?

René Descartes


Who is the founder of coordinate geometry?

The founder of coordinate geometry is René Descartes, a French philosopher and mathematician. In the 17th century, he developed the Cartesian coordinate system, which allows for the representation of geometric shapes using algebraic equations. This innovative approach laid the groundwork for the integration of algebra and geometry, revolutionizing mathematics. Descartes' work is foundational to modern mathematics and has influenced various fields, including physics and engineering.


What are some stuff named after Rene Descartes?

Some things named after René Descartes include the Cartesian coordinate system used in mathematics, the Descartes' rule of signs in algebra, and the Cartesian diver in physics. Additionally, there are numerous schools, streets, and institutions around the world named after him.


Why did descartes invent the coordinate graph?

Descartes invented the coordinate graph to help visualize and represent mathematical functions and relationships. By using the coordinate system, Descartes was able to link algebraic equations with geometry, leading to the development of analytic geometry. This innovation revolutionized the way mathematics was studied and applied.


Who invented the coordinate system?

Rene Descartes


Who is the father coordinate geometry?

Rene Descartes


Who is the father of coordinate geometry?

Rene Descartes


Where was the coordinate plane invented?

Rene Descartes


Who invented the coordinate grid?

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Who had the idea of the coordinate plane?

Rene Descartes.


When did René Descartes invent mathematics?

He didn't invent mathematics.