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A Comprehensive Study of the Mathematical Book B on the Qin Bamboo Slips Preserved at Peking University (with XIA Qingzhuo 夏𢋣卓)
Wed, July 15, 9:15 to 10:45am, EICC, Floor: Level 1, Carrick Suites 3English Abstract
The recently published Qin bamboo manuscripts preserved at Peking University include three previously unknown mathematical works, one of which is the Suanshu yizhong (算書乙種, Mathematical Book B). This paper provides the first systematic study of it, analyzes its style and compilation, knowledge types and mathematical methods, as well as relevant social context. It corrects several mistaken understandings in previous studies. The work is a compilation with a specific hierarchical structure, reflecting an intended arrangement, though with some oversights. As a document of practical mathematical procedures, it does not belong to the classical system that evolved from the jiushu 九數 (nine branches of mathematics) to the Jiuzhang suanshu 九章算術 (Nine Chapters on Mathematical Procedures). However, its content still provides new direct evidence for Liu Hui’s record that the Nine Chapters on Mathematical Procedures originated from pre-Qin ancestors. At the same time, it also serves as a valuable source through which we can study the society and economy of the Qin State and the Qin Dynasty.