Reason to Use 60 as Base Number
Actual reason to use 60 as the base number in the sexagesimal system is uncertain. However, it is said that it is used as it has multiple factors or divisors. The factors of 60 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 12, 15, 20, 30 and 60. Thus, it is a highly composite number.
Also, its factors contain prime numbers that are 2, 3 and 5. The sexagesimal system was predominantly used before the introduction of computers. However, due to the compatibility of computer systems with binary and decimal systems only, the use of the sexagesimal system has pretty much declined in the modern world.
Sexagesimal System
Sexagesimal System is a numeral system used for measuring time, angles and geographical coordinates based on the number 60. It is one of the ancient numeral systems. In the sexagesimal numeral system, a unit of the concerned physical quantity is divided into 60 equal divisions. The reason to use the number 60 is that it has multiple divisors, making it convenient to create divisions of the physical quantity such as hour, minute, degree, etc.
In modern world, the sexagesimal system is mostly replaced by the decimal system as it is more convenient and practical. But, it is still prevalent in measurements involving angles, time, longitude and latitude.
In this article, we will learn about the sexagesimal system, reasons to use 60 as the base number, examples where it is used, practice questions and related frequently asked questions.
Table of Content
- What is Sexagesimal System?
- Reason to Use 60 as Base Number
- Sexagesimal System Examples
- Angle Measurement
- Time Measurement
- Geographical Coordinates
- Conclusion
- Practice Questions on Sexagesimal System