Thomas Fincke facts for kids
Thomas Fincke (born January 6, 1561 – died April 24, 1656) was an important Danish scientist. He was a mathematician and physicist. He taught at the University of Copenhagen for over 60 years. He is best known for his work in mathematics.
Early Life and Education
Thomas Jacobsen Fincke was born in a city called Flensburg. This city is in a region known as Schleswig. His father was Jacob Fincke, a councillor, and his mother was Anna Thorsmede.
Thomas went to school in Flensburg. After that, in 1577, he began studying at the University of Strasbourg. For five years, he focused on mathematics, public speaking (rhetoric), and other important subjects.
Contributions to Mathematics
Fincke's most important work is his book, Geometria rotundi. He published this book in 1583. In this book, he introduced the modern names for two key trigonometric functions: tangent and secant. These terms are still used in mathematics today.
In 1590, Fincke became a professor of mathematics at the University of Copenhagen. Later, in 1603, he also became a professor of medicine. He taught for a very long time, sharing his knowledge with many students.
Family and Legacy
Thomas Fincke was married to Ivaria Jungesdatter Ivers. They had a son named Jacob Fincke, who also became a professor of physics. His daughters married other well-known scientists and scholars of their time. These included Caspar Bartholin the Elder and Ole Worm.
Thomas Fincke passed away in Copenhagen. He was buried at Vor Frue Kirke, a famous church in the city. His work helped shape how we understand trigonometry today.
