147. Logarithmotechny

Kyle and Emily brave the terrifying, technical world of math, and get to know a wonderful wizard of a man along the way, as they discuss the meaning and origin of logarithmotechny.

Our hosts break down this impressive word into some familiar parts. Then, taking a break from English class, they move on to algebra. Don’t worry; there’s not too many numbers today! Just enough that Kyle can reacquaint Emily with the logarithms she’s sure she once understood.

But our two students spend the longest in history class, discussing the great logarithmic work of one John Napier. Kyle reveals the impact Napier had on everything from decimal fractions to the mechanical calculator to early computer technology. And before the episode is out, Emily learns that Napier’s work was not just mathematical, but magical!