History of Binomial and Multinomial Expansions

Abstract

In applied mathematics Binomial Expansion and Multinomial expansion are of great importance. In around 300 BCE Indian mathematician Pingala had derived the method of obtainng a triangular arrangement known as “Meru-Prastar” for attainment of coefficients of binomial expansion. In sixteenth century, CE it was rediscovered by French mathematician Blasé Pascal (1588-1688CE) and termed as Pascal’s triangle. This paper discusses the development of binomial expansion, multinomial expansion with its applications. The paper also emphasizes the fact that the historical roots of binomial expansion are embedded in Pingalacharya’s Meru-Prastar.