Number System

• Islamic scholars borrowed the Indian number system that spread along the Silk Road

• Arabic numbers are done in groups of ten and include the concept of zero

Algebra

• Developed method to solve difficult math problems, called “Al-Jabar”

• Substitute x, y, and z to solve math problems

Chemistry

• Islamic scholars were the first to try to separate compounds

• For example, they discovered that all metals were a mixture of sulfur and mercury, and the gold was a perfect balance of them

Navigation

• Improved the astrolabe to make it a very reliable tool to determine direction

• Added ways to calculate longitude, latitude, and directions

• Helped Muslims find the location of Mecca, and sailors find their destination

Banking

• Muslim caliphs were among the first to have widespread banks

• Trade grew since they allowed merchants to cash checks at any Islamic banks

Education

• Islamic scholars translate Greek, Persian, and Indian works into the “House of Wisdom”

• A major center in modern-day Baghdad contained massive libraries, open halls for debate, taught multiple languages, and preserved culture for millions

Art

• Muslim artists used geometric and floral patterns instead of making art of people and animals

• Created a unique style that attracted attention of markets around the world

Chess

• Indian game that was made very popular by Muslim intellects

• The challenge of the game made it very popular at the House of Wisdom

Literature

• Poetry is one of the greatest Islamic art styles

• Usually sung and kept it short

• Arabian Nights is a collection of Arabic folktales about a genie and a magic lamp

Architecture

• Beautiful mosques built to show respect for Allah and Muhammad

• Used domes, columns, and geometric designs