Definition
Abraham Sharp (1651 – 12 May 1742) was an English mathematician, astronomer, and instrument maker noted for his contributions to logarithmic tables, geometry, and the development of astronomical instruments in the late 17th and early 18th centuries.
Overview
Born in Oakham, Rutland, England, Sharp received limited formal education but displayed an early aptitude for mathematics. He worked as a clerk for the Royal Mint before being appointed as a clerk of the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, in 1680. At Greenwich he assisted the astronomer John Flamsteed and later succeeded him as the Observatory’s chief instrument maker. Sharp is best remembered for publishing “A Treatise of Fluxions” (1699), a work on the calculus of Isaac Newton, and for producing accurate logarithmic tables, including a 12‑place logarithm table for the sine function. His practical skills led to the construction of a large mural quadrant and a 60‑inch (5‑foot) radius telescope, both important for precise astronomical observations of the period.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Abraham” is of Hebrew origin, meaning “father of many.” The surname “Sharp” is an English occupational or descriptive name, historically applied to a person noted for keenness of intellect or a sharp-featured appearance.
Characteristics
- Mathematical Works: Sharp’s publications include “Logarithmic Tables of Sines” (1699) and several pamphlets on the use of the method of fluxions (Newtonian calculus).
- Instrument Design: He designed and fabricated large astronomical instruments, notably a 10‑foot mural quadrant and a 6‑foot telescope, which improved the accuracy of celestial measurements at Greenwich.
- Professional Roles: Served as a clerk‑assistant to John Flamsteed, later becoming the chief instrument maker and performing observational duties.
- Legacy: Though less widely known than contemporaries such as Newton or Flamsteed, Sharp’s practical contributions to instrumentation and his logarithmic tables were utilized by astronomers and navigators well into the 18th century.
Related Topics
- John Flamsteed – First Astronomer Royal, collaborator with Sharp.
- Newtonian calculus (method of fluxions) – Mathematical framework employed in Sharp’s treatises.
- Logarithmic tables – Numerical tables crucial for navigation and astronomy, refined by Sharp.
- Royal Observatory, Greenwich – Institution where Sharp conducted much of his work.
- 17th‑century scientific instrumentation – Context for Sharp’s instrument design and construction.