A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Archimedes

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Archimedes was a Greek mathematician, physicist, engineer, inventor, and astronomer. He is considered one of the greatest mathematicians of all time, and his work has had a profound impact on the development of science and engineering.

Archimedes made many important contributions to mathematics, physics, engineering, and astronomy. He is best known for his work on buoyancy, which is the force that pushes objects up in water. He also invented the Archimedes screw, which is a machine used to lift water.

Here are some other key things to know about Archimedes:

  • He was a Greek mathematician, physicist, engineer, inventor, and astronomer.
  • He is considered one of the greatest mathematicians of all time.
  • His work has had a profound impact on the development of science and engineering.
  • He is best known for his work on buoyancy and the Archimedes screw.
  • He was killed in 212 BC during the Siege of Syracuse.

How can the word be used?

The Archimedes screw is a simple but ingenious device.

Archimedes

Different forms of the word

Proper noun: Archimedes.

Adjective: Archimedean.

Common noun: an Archimedes.

Etymology

The word "Archimedes" comes from the Greek word "arkhimédês," which means "he who excels in ingenuity." The Greek word "arkhimédês" is derived from the words "arkhein," which means "to rule," and "mêdês," which means "mind.".

Question

What is Archimedes famous for?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Who was Archimedes, and what was his significant contribution to the understanding of buoyancy?

Answer:

  • Archimedes was an ancient Greek mathematician, physicist, and engineer. His significant contribution to the understanding of buoyancy was the principle known as "Archimedes' principle." According to this principle, an object immersed in a fluid experiences an upward buoyant force equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by the object. This concept laid the foundation for understanding buoyancy and is famously illustrated by Archimedes' exclamation, "Eureka!" when he realised the principle while stepping into a bath.