Gerolamo Cardano
Gerolamo Cardano | |
|---|---|
 Portrait of Gerolamo Cardano | |
| Born | 24 September 1501 |
| Died | 21 September 1576 (aged 74) |
| Nationality | Italian |
| Known for | Cardano's formula, Cardan shaft, Cardano's rings |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Mathematics, Physics, Medicine, Astrology |
Gerolamo Cardano (24 September 1501 – 21 September 1576) was an Italian Renaissance mathematician, physician, astrologer, and philosopher. He is best known for his work in algebra and for the invention of several mechanical devices, including the Cardan shaft and Cardano's rings.
Early Life[edit | edit source]
Cardano was born in Pavia, in the Duchy of Milan. His father, Fazio Cardano, was a lawyer and a close friend of Leonardo da Vinci. Despite his father's wishes for him to pursue a career in law, Cardano showed an early interest in mathematics and the natural sciences.
Career[edit | edit source]
Cardano studied at the University of Pavia and later at the University of Padua, where he earned his degree in medicine. He became a prominent physician and was known for his work on hypochondria and other medical conditions. Cardano's medical practice was highly successful, and he was appointed as a professor of medicine at the University of Bologna.
Mathematics[edit | edit source]
Cardano made significant contributions to algebra, particularly in the solution of cubic equations. His most famous work, Ars Magna (The Great Art), published in 1545, contains the first published solution to cubic and quartic equations. This work also includes the introduction of complex numbers.
Inventions[edit | edit source]
Cardano is credited with the invention of several mechanical devices. The Cardan shaft, also known as the universal joint, is used in many modern machines to transmit rotary motion. Cardano's rings are used in gimbals to allow the rotation of an object in multiple dimensions.
Astrology and Philosophy[edit | edit source]
Cardano was also an accomplished astrologer and philosopher. He wrote extensively on these subjects, and his works include detailed horoscopes and philosophical treatises. His book De Subtilitate (On Subtlety) explores various scientific and philosophical topics.
Personal Life[edit | edit source]
Cardano's personal life was marked by tragedy and controversy. He faced numerous legal and financial difficulties, and his son was executed for poisoning his wife. Despite these challenges, Cardano continued to work and publish until his death in 1576 in Rome.
Legacy[edit | edit source]
Gerolamo Cardano's contributions to mathematics, medicine, and mechanics have had a lasting impact. His work laid the foundation for many modern scientific and mathematical principles, and his inventions continue to be used in various applications today.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
- Algebra
- Complex number
- Cubic equation
- Renaissance
- University of Pavia
- University of Padua
- University of Bologna
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