NCERT Book Class 6 Mathematics Chapter 1 Patterns in Mathematics

1 PATTERNS IN
MATHEMATICS

1.1 What is Mathematics?
Mathematics is, in large part, the search for patterns, and for
the explanations as to why those patterns exist.
Such patterns indeed exist all around us — in nature, in
our homes and schools, and in the motion of the sun, moon,
and stars. They occur in everything that we do and see, from
shopping and cooking, to throwing a ball and playing games, to
understanding weather patterns and using technology.
The search for patterns and their explanations can be a fun
and creative endeavour. It is for this reason that mathematicians
think of mathematics both as an art and as a science. This year, we
hope that you will get a chance to see the creativity and artistry
involved in discovering and understanding mathematical
patterns.
It is important to keep in mind that mathematics
aims to not just find out what patterns exist, but also the
explanations for why they exist. Such explanations can
often then be used in applications well beyond the context in
which they were discovered, which can then help to propel
humanity forward.

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