Mathematics



Base-4 Number System

During the High Basiliscus Dynasty, scholars in Long employed a base-4 number system (occasionally referred to as the Quarternary system). It was the belief among many eminent philosophers that the square was the perfect shape from a geometric and spiritual perspective.

Base 4 Numerals

Base 4 values expressed in decimal form

Base-10/Decimal System

The base-4 system proved unwieldy for handling large numbers and more complex mathematics. Thus the people of Long came to adopt the base-10 (or decimal) number system developed by Cetacian merchants to the south. The origins of base-10 is though to stem from the fact people have 10 fingers.

Modern Use of Base-4

Due to its association with a prestigious Classical Age, remnants of base-4 can still be glimpsed today. In terms of language usage, the number 256 (4^4 ) is often used to represent a large number. This is also reflected in some physical artifacts such as the Hall of 256 Pillars at Ophipagus. Base-4 numbers can also be seen on some clocks and in order to express numbers such as dates and the surname of monarchs (e.g. Naja V or Naja l l ).