I am the number that changed mathematics. I am nothing, yet without me, nothing works. I was invented twice — once in India and once in Mesoamerica. What am I?

Question

Accepted Answer

Zero. The concept of zero as a number (not just a placeholder) was independently developed in India around the 5th century and by the Maya civilisation in Mesoamerica. Without zero, mathematics as we know it — including computers — would be impossible.

"I am the number that changed mathematics. I am nothing, yet without me, nothing works. I was invented twice — once in India and once in Mesoamerica. What am I?"

More to Ponder