Character Catalog

A foundational treatise on modern number theory, written when Gauss was just 21 years old. In it, he introduces the concept of congruence and lays the groundwork for abstract algebra, influencing every generation of mathematicians that followed.

Gauss rigorously proved that every polynomial with real coefficients has at least one complex root. He went on to provide four different proofs of this result over the course of his life.

A work in which Gauss presents his methods for calculating planetary orbits and formalizes the method of least squares. This text established both precision astronomy and modern mathematical statistics.

A groundbreaking memoir in differential geometry, in which Gauss proves the Theorema Egregium: the curvature of a surface is an intrinsic property. This work paved the way for non-Euclidean geometries and general relativity.

An optical instrument used to signal geodetic points over long distances by reflecting sunlight. This practical invention transformed cartography and land surveying.

The first functional telegraph, connecting the Göttingen Observatory to the Physics Institute over a distance of 1.5 km. This invention foreshadowed modern communication networks.

The result of an international collaboration coordinated by Gauss to measure Earth's magnetic field. This work founded the field of geophysics and made it possible to locate the South Magnetic Pole.

The investigations contained in this work belong to higher arithmetic and concern principally the positive integers. We shall distinguish prime numbers from composite ones and set forth the properties of residues.

The method of least squares, applied to the determination of planetary orbits, yields the most probable value of an unknown quantity from a series of observations subject to inevitable errors.

ΕΎΡΗΚΑ! num = Δ + Δ + Δ. [Eureka! Every positive integer is the sum of at most three triangular numbers.]

I have calculated the orbit of the new planet from Piazzi's observations and can state with certainty that the elements I propose will allow it to be recovered at the indicated position.

The curvature of a surface at a point is an intrinsic quantity that does not depend on how the surface is embedded in space — this is what we call the Theorema Egregium.

Gauss's birthplace, where he grew up in a modest family. The Duke of Brunswick recognized his genius and funded his studies, enabling him to attend university.

Gauss began studying here in 1795 and spent most of his career as director of the observatory. The university was at the time one of the most important intellectual centers in Europe.

Gauss served as its director from 1807 to 1855. From this observatory, he conducted research in astronomy, geodesy, and terrestrial magnetism, and co-invented the electromagnetic telegraph with Weber.

The highest peak of the Harz mountains, used by Gauss as a triangulation summit during the geodetic survey of Hanover (1818–1825). Measurements taken here contributed to his work on the curvature of surfaces.

The university where Gauss defended his doctoral thesis in 1799, proving the fundamental theorem of algebra — a cornerstone of modern mathematics.