Which Arab scientist is credited with giving his name to the mathematical discipline known today as algorithm?

Introduction / Context:
The word algorithm, fundamental to modern computer science and mathematics, has historical roots in the work and name of a medieval Arab mathematician. Understanding this origin is part of general awareness about the contribution of Islamic scholars to mathematics. This question asks which Arab scientist name evolved into the term algorithm.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Four prominent scholars from the Islamic Golden Age are listed: Al-Khwarizmi, Ibn al-Haytham, Ibn Rushd and Ibn Sina.
• The question links one of them to the origin of the term algorithm.
• We assume basic awareness that algorithm is related to arithmetic and algebra.

Concept / Approach:
The term algorithm is derived from the Latinised version of the name of Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi, a mathematician who wrote influential works on arithmetic and algebra. His treatises were translated into Latin, where his name appeared as Algoritmi, which later evolved into the word algorithm. The other scholars on the list are also famous, but for different contributions in optics, philosophy and medicine. Matching this historical information to the options identifies the correct scientist.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recognise that algorithm originally referred to the rules of arithmetic based on the Hindu Arabic numeral system as presented in the Latin translations of Al-Khwarizmi works. Step 2: Al-Khwarizmi wrote important treatises on calculation using Indian numerals and on algebraic methods, which had a deep influence on European mathematics. Step 3: In Latin, his name was rendered as Algoritmi or similar variants. Over time, the term came to be associated with the step by step rules of calculation and eventually general procedures for solving mathematical problems, leading to the modern usage algorithm. Step 4: Ibn al-Haytham is known for his pioneering work in optics and experimental methods, not for giving his name to algorithm. Step 5: Ibn Rushd, also known as Averroes, is remembered mainly as a philosopher and commentator on Aristotle. Step 6: Ibn Sina, or Avicenna, is celebrated for his medical and philosophical works. Step 7: Therefore the correct answer is Al-Khwarizmi.

Verification / Alternative check:
Historical notes in mathematics textbooks often point out that both algebra and algorithm words are linked to Arabic scholarship, with algebra coming from al-jabr in the title of Al-Khwarizmi book and algorithm coming from his Latinised name. This double connection makes Al-Khwarizmi easy to associate with both disciplines. There is no similar linguistic link between algorithm and the names of Ibn al-Haytham, Ibn Rushd or Ibn Sina, which confirms that Al-Khwarizmi is the correct choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Ibn al-Haytham contributed to optics and scientific method, not to the naming of algorithm.
• Ibn Rushd contributions lie in philosophy and legal theory, not in arithmetic naming.
• Ibn Sina is primarily associated with medicine and philosophy, especially his Canon of Medicine.

Common Pitfalls:
The main pitfall is to recognise these names as important Islamic scholars but not to connect them with the specific term asked in the question. Without careful reading, learners may guess randomly. Another issue is confusing the origin of algebra with the origin of algorithm, even though both are connected to Al-Khwarizmi. Remember that both words can be linked to him, which makes it easier to answer correctly.

Final Answer:
Al-Khwarizmi