Archimedes of Syracuse (c. 287 – c. 212 BC) was an extraordinary ancient Greek mathematician, physicist, engineer, inventor, and astronomer.
Coming from Syracuse, Sicily, he contributed immensely to various disciplines, including mathematics, physics, and engineering.
Some of his most renowned works include
Archimedes’ Principle
This principle asserts that a body submerged in a fluid is subjected to a buoyant force equivalent to the weight of the fluid it displaces. According to legend, he made this discovery during a bath and is said to have shouted “Eureka!” in excitement.
Archimedes’ Screw
A clever mechanism for lifting water, which remains in use even today.
Law of the Lever
He articulated the principle of the lever, forming the groundwork for classical mechanics.
Indivisibles
He foresaw the concepts of modern calculus by employing the notion of infinitely small quantities.
Archimedes’ contributions have profoundly influenced science and engineering, earning him recognition as one of history’s most eminent mathematicians and scientists.