HISTORY OF ALGORITHMS

Algorithms represent a set of procedures for completing a task or solving a problem. The term algorithm comes from the name of a 9th century mathematician from N.W. Uzbekistan: Abu Abdullah Muhammad bin Musa "al-Khwarizmi." Readers should note that multiple sources refer to "al Khwarizmi" with at least five different names, for example, he is also known as Abu Ja'Far Muhammad ibn-Musa Al-Khowarizmi.

Algorithms are ubiquitous among contemporary societies; however, most of us probably rely on algorithms without even knowing it. While most of us use computers, few recognize that the design of algorithms is a focal point for computer programmers in Computer Science and Information Systems. Since algorithms serve different goals, they can be found throughout most areas of our society and culture: from financial management to entertainment to energy exploration, and medical services. For example, compression algorithms help send music over the internet; algorithms in bioscience, such as Q5, can detect diseases; and genetic algorithms (GA’s) improve delivery services and investment strategies.

Although algorithms are designed to solve problems, composers have adopted them as models for creating music. This method for composing music is called algorithmic composition.


Algorithm
History Links

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Algorithms in
Music

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Algorithms in
Math

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Algorithms in
Science

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Algorithms and
Computers