Arch i me des

the most famous of ancient mathematicians, was a native of Syracuse. He po e ed equal knowledge of the sciences of astronomy, geometry, hydrostatics, mechanics, and optics. Among his inventions were the combination of pulleys for lifting heavy weights, the revolving screw, and a spherical representation of the motion of the heavenly bodies. His inventive genius was especially exemplified in the defense of Syracuse when besieged by Mar cell us. It is ‘ said that on this occasion he devised n burning-gla , formed of reflecting mirrors of such power that byt he set fire to the enemy’s fleet. his well known story is, however, believed to be equally an invention.