How could ancient Roman architects calculate things as precisely as the drop rate of the aqueducts or the pressure of water when building a canal, projects that today need a computer to be modelised and tested before even starting the building stage ? Did they do calculus and arithmetic...with the Roman numerals ??? Did they use an abacus like the Chinese ? Any insight is welcome!
Hi, Roman mathematics and engineering are a fairly popular subjects in this sub, so while you're waiting for direct responses, you may find these earlier threads interesting:
What was math/physics before calculus? Finishing 2nd year college physics, and its in pretty much everything featuring /u/ManicMarine
How did the Romans do engineering? featuring /u/Tiako
I am a young man in the Roman Empire with a profound interest in engineering. I want to build aquaducts and bridges when I grow up. How do I receive the training/education to do this? featuring /u/Alkibiades415
Mathematics
What mathematical symbols (ie + and -) were used in the Roman Republic and Empire? Did they change? featuring /u/kohatsootsich
FAQ section Using Roman numerals to do mathematics