Re: [MATHEDCC] Question
LSpahr1455@AOL.COM
Sat, 10 Apr 1999 14:19:24 EDT
Why is a Quadratic Equation called a "Quadratic"?
A student posed that question in my class approximately 8 years ago. I had
absolutely no answer, as I also thought the equation should be a "Bidratic".
However, one of the Hispanic students quickly spoke up and informed the class
the the word for square in Spanish is "cuadrado". Hence, the word is
obviously a Latin derivative of something to do with squares!
****************************************************************************
* To post to the list: email mathedcc@archives.math.utk.edu *
* To unsubscribe, send mail to: majordomo@archives.math.utk.edu *
* In the mail message, enter ONLY the words: unsubscribe mathedcc *
* Words in the Subject: line are NOT processed! *
* Archives at http://archives.math.utk.edu/hypermail/mathedcc/ *
****************************************************************************