Analysis

Analysis is the process of breaking a complex topic or substance into smaller parts in order to gain knowledge about it.

Description

The technique has been applied in the study of mathematics and logic since before Aristotle (384–322 B.C.), though analysis as a formal concept is a relatively recent development.

As a formal concept, the method has variously been ascribed to Alhazen, René Descartes (Discourse on the Method), and Galileo Galilei.

It has also been ascribed to Isaac Newton, in the form of a practical method of physical discovery (which he did not name).

Etymology

The word analysis comes from the Ancient Greek ἀνάλυσις (analusis, "a breaking up", from ana- "up, throughout" and lysis "a loosening").

Synthesis

Synthesis is the opposite of analysis.

See also

• Calculus
• Complexity
• Learning
• Logic
• Mathematical analysis
• Mathematics
• Problem solving
• Reason
• Software requirements

External links

• Analysis @ Wikipedia