Although the Term ‘Algebra’ is Now in Universal Use Various Other GMAT Reading Comprehension

Reading Passage Question

Although the term ‘algebra’ is now in universal use, various other appellations were used by the Italian mathematicians during the Renaissance. Some Italian writers termed it the Regula rei et census, the rule of the thing and the product, or the root and the square. The principle underlying this expression is probably to be found in the fact that it measured the limits of their attainments in algebra, for they were unable to solve equations of a higher degree than the quadratic or square.

Franciscus Vieta (Francois Viete) named it Specious Arithmetic, on account of the species of the quantities involved, which he represented symbolically by the various letters of the alphabet. Sir Isaac Newton introduced the term Universal Arithmetic, since it is concerned with the doctrine of operations, not affected on numbers, but on general symbols.

Notwithstanding these and other idiosyncratic appellations, European mathematicians have adhered to the older name, by which the subject is now universally known.

It is difficult to assign the invention of any art or science definitely to any particular age or race. The few fragmentary records, which have come down to us from past civilizations, must not be regarded as representing the totality of their knowledge, and the omission of a science or art does not necessarily imply that the science or art was unknown. It was formerly the custom to assign the invention of algebra to the Greeks, but since the decipherment of the Rhind papyrus by Eisenlohr this view has changed, for in this work there are distinct signs of an algebraic analysis. The particular problem---a heap (hau) and its seventh makes 19---is solved as we should now solve a simple equation; but Ahmes varies his methods in other similar problems. This discovery carries the invention of algebra back to about 1700 B.C., if not earlier.

“Although the term ‘algebra’ is now in universal use”- is a GMAT reading comprehension passage with answers. Candidates need a strong knowledge of English GMAT reading comprehension.

This GMAT Reading Comprehension consists of 3 comprehension questions. The GMAT Reading Comprehension questions are designed for the purpose of testing candidates’ abilities in understanding, analyzing, and applying information or concepts. Candidates can actively prepare with the help of GMAT Reading Comprehension Practice Questions.

Solution and Explanation

Question 1
According to the passage, algebra during the Renaissance was

1. limited in its mathematical potential.
2. used only by mathematicians.
3. called by many names.

1. I only
2. III only
3. I and III only
4. II and III only
5. I, II, and III

Question 2
The passage focuses primarily on:

1. the naming of algebra
2. math in the Renaissance
3. the history of algebra
4. the invention of math
5. important figures in mathematics

Question 3
Which of the following questions is NOT answered by the passage?

1. What term did Sir Isaac Newton use for algebra?
2. Who invented algebra?
3. What kinds of equations could the Italians solve during the Renaissance?
4. Who was the first person to use letters in a symbolic manner?
5. What other names did people use for algebra?

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