Archimedes, an eminent ancient Greek mathematician, physicist, engineer, inventor, and astronomer, made several monumental discoveries and inventions that continue to influence various scientific and engineering fields.
What Did Archimedes Discover?
Archimedes is primarily celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions in mathematics and mechanics, which include a fundamental geometric relationship, a pivotal principle of hydrostatics, and an ingenious mechanical device.
Key Discoveries and Inventions by Archimedes
According to Britannica, Archimedes' most notable contributions include:
- The Relation Between a Sphere and its Circumscribing Cylinder
- Archimedes' Principle (Hydrostatic Principle)
- The Archimedes Screw
These discoveries highlight his genius in both theoretical mathematics and practical engineering.
1. The Relation Between a Sphere and its Circumscribing Cylinder
Archimedes is especially important for his discovery of the relation between the surface and volume of a sphere and its circumscribing cylinder. He famously proved that the volume of a sphere is two-thirds the volume of its circumscribing cylinder, and similarly, its surface area is two-thirds the surface area of the cylinder (including its bases). This profound geometric insight was considered his most significant mathematical achievement, and he reportedly requested that a sphere inscribed within a cylinder be engraved on his tombstone. This discovery laid foundational work for later developments in integral calculus.
2. Archimedes' Principle (Hydrostatic Principle)
He is known for his formulation of a hydrostatic principle, widely recognized as Archimedes' principle. This principle states that a body immersed in a fluid experiences an upward buoyant force equal to the weight of the fluid it displaces. This fundamental concept explains why objects float or sink and is crucial for understanding fluid mechanics, naval architecture, and various engineering applications. The famous "Eureka!" moment is often associated with Archimedes discovering this principle while attempting to determine the purity of a golden crown.
3. The Archimedes Screw
Archimedes also invented a practical device for raising water, still used, known as the Archimedes screw. This device consists of a large screw-shaped surface inside a pipe, which is rotated to lift water from a lower to a higher elevation. It was initially developed to remove water from the bilge of large ships and for irrigation purposes. Today, variations of the Archimedes screw are still employed globally for irrigation, moving grains, and even in some sewage treatment plants, showcasing its enduring utility and brilliant simplicity.
Summary of Archimedes' Major Contributions
| Discovery/Invention | Core Concept | Lasting Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Sphere & Circumscribing Cylinder | Mathematical ratio (2/3) of volume and surface area | Fundamental in geometry; prefigured calculus |
| Archimedes' Principle (Hydrostatics) | Buoyancy force equals weight of displaced fluid | Cornerstone of fluid mechanics and ship design |
| The Archimedes Screw | Device for efficiently raising water | Practical engineering marvel; still widely used today |
For more detailed information on Archimedes' life and work, you can refer to his biography on Britannica.
