... and mathematics: machines were best at performing tasks repeatedly without mistake, while mathematics often required a repetition of steps. The problem was applying the ability of machines to the needs of mathematics. Babbage's first attempt was in 1822 when he proposed a machine to perform differential equations, called a Difference Engine. It was powered by steam and large as a locomotive. The machine ... slow, taking three to five seconds per calculation, and inflexible because sequences of calculations could not change, but it could perform basic math and also more complex equations...

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• Grade Level: Undergraduate