58 Srinivasa Ramanujuan

Scientists Name 

Srinivasa Ramanujuan

Time period: 1887-1920

Subject: Mathematics

Biography: Srinivasa Ramanujan was born in Erode, Tamil Nadu, India, and showed an extraordinary mathematical aptitude from a young age. His deep interest in mathematics led him to independently explore various mathematical concepts, often neglecting other subjects. By the age of 15, he had developed his own complex theories, which he documented in a notebook. Although Ramanujan’s early academic career was turbulent, lacking formal higher education in mathematics, his work eventually caught the attention of G.H. Hardy, a renowned mathematician at Cambridge University in England. Ramanujan moved to Cambridge in 1914, where he worked alongside Hardy in number theory and other areas.
Despite health challenges, including malnutrition and illnesses exacerbated by the cold English climate, Ramanujan continued to make profound contributions to mathematics until his death at the age of 32. His legacy endures through theorems, identities, and formulas, many of which were later proven to be groundbreaking in advanced mathematical research.

Summary of their contributions:

Ramanujan Prime and Ramanujan-Hardy Number: Concepts related to prime numbers that continue to influence modern mathematical research.

Ramanujan’s work on infinite series: He developed several series for π (pi) that were later used in practical applications, such as computing pi to more digits.

Partition Theory: His research on integer partitions has influenced areas of modern mathematics and physics, especially in the study of quantum physics and statistical mechanics.

Integration with the BC Secondary Science Curriculum:

1. Subjects Represented:
   • Mathematics: Ramanujan’s primary work directly connects to secondary mathematics curricula, particularly in the areas of number theory, algebra, and calculus. His theories on infinite series and continued fractions are central to advanced mathematics.
   • Physics: His work also intersects with physics through the application of his theories in quantum mechanics and statistical physics.
2. Curricular Competencies: Ramanujan’s work is relevant to the following competencies:
   • Problem-solving: Many of Ramanujan’s contributions, such as his work on partition theory, can be used to demonstrate mathematical problem-solving strategies.
   • Reasoning and analyzing: Students can explore Ramanujan’s ability to discern patterns in numbers and series, applying logical reasoning to solve complex problems.
   • Modeling and communication: Ramanujan’s methods of communicating complex mathematical ideas can be incorporated into lessons that help students express and apply their understanding of mathematical models.

References:

Wiki: Srinivasa Ramanujan – Wikipedia

The Man Who Knew Infinity: A Life of the Genius Ramanujan by Robert Kanigel – A biography detailing Ramanujan’s life and work.

Mathematics: From the Birth of Numbers by Jan Gullberg – A comprehensive look at the development of mathematical concepts, including Ramanujan’s contributions.