Known as the Father of Algebra, Al Khwarizmi, an Islamic mathematician and astronomer, developed the number system as we know it today. He is also responsible for the completing the square method for solving quadratic equations. He developed logarithms based upon the number system he invented. The word algebra is a Latin derivative of al-jabr, used in the book he wrote, The Compendious Book on Calculation by Completion and Balancing. Al-Khwarizmi frequently uses geometric figures to explain equations - showing the strong connection between geometry and algebra. Please visit the links below for further explanation and information about this great mathematician's contributions.
The Origin of the Word Algebra click the link
About Al-Khwarizmi click on the link
Al-Khwarizmi's Completing the Square Activity click on the link
Al-Khwarizmi invented the way we write numerals. The system is based upon how many angles are in the number.
Sources:
"Abu Ja'far Muhammad Ibn Musa Al-Khwarizmi." Al-Khwarizmi Biography. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 May 2014.
"Al-Khwarizmi - Islamic Mathematics - The Story of Mathematics." Al-Khwarizmi - Islamic Mathematics - The Story of Mathematics. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 May 2014.
Manzoor, Yoyo. "How to Make an Islamic Tessellation." YouTube. YouTube, n.d. Web. 29 June 2014. <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6JYxj_ezLI>
"Abu Ja'far Muhammad Ibn Musa Al-Khwarizmi." Al-Khwarizmi Biography. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 May 2014.
"Al-Khwarizmi - Islamic Mathematics - The Story of Mathematics." Al-Khwarizmi - Islamic Mathematics - The Story of Mathematics. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 May 2014.
Manzoor, Yoyo. "How to Make an Islamic Tessellation." YouTube. YouTube, n.d. Web. 29 June 2014. <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6JYxj_ezLI>