1. Counting stage: The concept of early human logarithm was mainly used for counting, that is, expressing quantity and counting the number of objects. The earliest counting method was through fingers, and later simple counting methods such as derivation calculation and calculation tools were developed.
2. Natural number stage: With the further development of society, people begin to classify and describe things in nature. The concept of natural number came into being, which can represent the number of objects of infinite size. Natural number is a form of integer, including 0, 1, 2, 3, etc.
3. Integer and negative stage: With people's understanding of the concepts of debt and temperature, the concept of integer gradually formed. Integers include positive integers, negative integers and 0, which can represent the number and direction of objects. The development of integers makes the representation of numbers richer and more flexible.
4. Rational number stage: With people's research on fractions, the concept of rational number is introduced into the number system. Rational number is the collective name of integer and fraction, which can represent the part and proportional relationship of an object. The introduction of rational number provides a wider range for the operation and application of logarithm.
The development of number is a long and complicated process, and human understanding and application of number has gone through many stages and important milestones. The above four stages are important milestones of digital development.
Application of numbers
1. Scientific research: Mathematics is the foundation of natural science and engineering technology, and almost all scientific research needs data collection, analysis and interpretation. Mathematical models and statistical methods play an important role in the research of physics, chemistry, biology and other fields, helping scientists to reveal the laws of nature.
2. Economy and finance: Mathematics is widely used in economy and finance. Economists use mathematical models to study market supply and demand, economic growth and other economic phenomena, and formulate economic policies. Financial economists use mathematical models and statistical methods to analyze the prices and risks of financial products such as stocks, bonds and futures, thus providing basis for investment decisions.