Object Details
maker
Baker, Richard P.
Description
This geometric model was constructed by Richard P. Baker in the early twentieth century when he was Associate Professor of Mathematics at the University of Iowa. Baker believed that models were essential for the teaching of many parts of mathematics and physics, and over 100 of his models are in the museum collections.
This painted wire structure has a tag that reads: No. 438 (/) Geometric sum spherical (/) steps.
Baker built nine models to correspond to figures described by the German mathematician Eduard Study in his book on the geometry of dynamics (shortened by Baker to Dynamen). Examples with numbers MA.211257.089 (this one) and MA.211257.090 relate to finding the sum of spherical wedges.
References:
Study, E., Geometrie Der Dynamen: Die Zusammensetzung Von Kräften Und Verwandte Gegenstände Der Geometrie Bearb., Leipzig: B.G. Teubner, 1903, esp. pp. 34-35.
Baker,R.P., Mathematical Models,, Iowa City, 1931, p. 16.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Gift of Frances E. Baker
date made
ca 1906-1935
ID Number
MA.211257.089
accession number
211257
catalog number
211257.089
Object Name
geometric model
Physical Description
metal (overall material)
beige (overall color)
soldered (overall production method/technique)
Measurements
average spatial: 6.6 cm x 19.8 cm x 18.3 cm; 2 19/32 in x 7 25/32 in x 7 7/32 in
See more items in
Medicine and Science: Mathematics
Science & Mathematics
Data Source
National Museum of American History
Subject
Mathematics
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmah_1087143