Brahmagupta

A 7th-century Indian mathematician who formalized rules for zero and negative numbers, reshaping global mathematics.

Brahmagupta (598–668 CE), in his magnum opus Brahmasphutasiddhanta, established foundational rules for zero and negative numbers, concepts that revolutionized mathematics. He defined zero as the result of subtracting a number from itself and described arithmetic operations for negatives, ideas later transmitted to the Islamic world and Europe.

As an astronomer, Brahmagupta critiqued geocentric models, arguing Earth was spherical and suspended in space. His interpolation formula for sine values advanced trigonometry, while his cyclic quadrilateral theorem remains a cornerstone of geometry.

Brahmagupta’s influence extended beyond India. Arab scholars like Al-Khwarizmi referenced his works, and his zero concept enabled the development of calculus. By systematizing abstract mathematical principles, Brahmagupta laid the groundwork for modern algebra and physics, cementing his status as a visionary thinker.