Getting Something from Nothing: the Story of Zero

If you put yourself in the place of ancient people, it’s a wonder that anyone ever came up with a number that means nothing. It doesn’t make much sense when you are counting objects, but it turned out to be pretty handy for mathematics.

(YouTube link)

Once the concept was there, it still wasn’t universally accepted. But time and science proved it was too useful to ignore. Dr. Hannah Fry  of the Royal Institution lays out a short version of the history of zero. -via mental_floss 


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I take them backpacking. Fast, easy, and especially good if it's cool or wet. Not uncommon in the North Maine Woods.

They also make a great side dish. Cook the noodles, drain well, stir in the spice packet.
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Other similarly cheap, quick and easy meals which don't require refrigeration include: boxes of mac & cheese, instant rice, stuffing, powdered potatoes, peanut butter crackers, cans of beans... etc

I only went without refrigeration for a brief period, but it left an indelible impression. It's always on my mind how much of my food will need to be trashed if my refrigerator quits suddenly, and I prefer shelf stable versions of foods (eg canned rather than frozen) where possible.
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