The Mexica had a sophisticated mathematical knowledge that was applied in a wide range of contexts, from the calculation of the tribute to the observation of the astronomical phenomena to the construction of the pyramids. The Mexica were skilled mathematicians, and they developed a sophisticated number system and a sophisticated understanding of the calendar and the astronomical phenomena.
Arithmetic
The Mexica were skilled in arithmetic, and they used their number system to perform a wide range of calculations. The Mexica could add, subtract, multiply, and divide using their vigesimal system, and they used these operations in the calculation of the tribute, in the recording of the calendar, and in the conduct of trade.
The Mexica also used a sophisticated system of weights and measures, and the market officials used the system to verify the weights and the measures used in the markets. The Mexica were particularly skilled in the conversion of weights and measures, and they used the system to calculate the value of the goods.
Geometry
The Mexica were also skilled in geometry, and they used their knowledge of geometry in the construction of the pyramids and the temples. The Mexica were able to construct pyramids that were stable and durable, and they were able to align the pyramids with the cardinal directions and with the movements of the sun and the stars.
The Mexica were also skilled in the calculation of areas and volumes, and they used this knowledge in the survey of the chinampas and in the construction of the aqueducts. The Mexica were particularly skilled in the calculation of the volume of irregular shapes, and they used this knowledge in the construction of the dyke of Nezahualcoyotl.
Astronomy
The Mexica had a sophisticated knowledge of astronomy, and they used this knowledge in the calculation of the calendar and in the prediction of the astronomical phenomena. The Mexica were skilled in the observation of the sun, the moon, and the planets, and they could predict eclipses and other astronomical events.
The Mexica had a particular interest in the planet Venus, and they kept careful records of its appearances and disappearances. The Mexica calculated the synodic period of Venus, the time it takes for the planet to return to the same position in the sky, and they used this information to determine the timing of the most important rituals.
The Mathematical Knowledge in the Service of the State
The Mexica mathematical knowledge was used in the service of the state, and it shaped the Mexica system of imperial administration. The calpixqui used the mathematical knowledge in the calculation of the tribute, the astronomers used it in the calculation of the calendar, and the architects used it in the construction of the pyramids.
The Mexica mathematical knowledge was also used in the conduct of trade, and the pochteca used the system in the calculation of the prices and the values of the goods. The Mexica mathematical knowledge shaped the Mexica state, and it shaped the Mexica cultural heritage.
Related Articles
- Mathematics and the Aztec Number System — the broader context
- What numbers and counting did the Aztecs use? — the basic signs
- How did the Aztecs use the vigesimal system? — the base-20 system
- The Tribute System and Imperial Wealth — the use in tribute
- The Aztec Calendar and Timekeeping — the use in astronomy
- Aztec Art, Architecture, and Science — the broader context