Which mathematician is credited with inventing the concept of logarithms to simplify long numerical calculations?

Introduction / Context:
Logarithms are a powerful mathematical tool used to simplify multiplication, division, powers and roots by converting them into addition and subtraction. Before electronic calculators, logarithms made astronomical and engineering calculations much easier. This question tests whether you know which mathematician is credited with inventing logarithms as a system for speeding up numerical work.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question asks for the mathematician who invented logarithms.
• Logarithms were introduced in the early seventeenth century.
• We assume basic awareness of famous contributors to mathematics.

Concept / Approach:
To answer this question, you need to recall the origin of logarithms. A Scottish mathematician introduced them to help astronomers and navigators who had to perform lengthy multiplications and divisions by hand. This invention led to the construction of logarithm tables and later slide rules. By associating logarithms with this Scottish mathematician, you can pick the correct name from the options.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that logarithms were created in the early 1600s to simplify big computations. Step 2: Remember that the Scottish mathematician John Napier is regarded as the inventor of logarithms. Step 3: Scan the options for the name John Napier. Step 4: Confirm that the other options are not historically linked to the invention of logarithms. Step 5: Choose John Napier as the final answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Larry Page is a modern internet entrepreneur and co founder of Google. Thomas Edison was an inventor involved in electric lighting and many other devices. Isaac Newton contributed greatly to calculus and physics but did not invent logarithms. Eden Snowden is not a recognised pioneer in this context. Textbooks consistently state that John Napier introduced logarithms and logarithm tables. Therefore cross checking the options confirms that John Napier must be the correct choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Eden Snowden is not associated with any major mathematical invention related to logarithms.
Larry Page belongs to the modern era of computing and has no connection to seventeenth century mathematics.
Thomas Edison is remembered for inventions like the phonograph and electric light, not mathematical systems.
Isaac Newton was a legendary scientist, but logarithms were already developed before his main work; he used them but did not invent them.

Common Pitfalls:
One common error is to choose Isaac Newton simply because he is a very famous mathematician and physicist. Another mistake is to confuse the invention of logarithms with later uses, such as in calculus or physics. Students may also mix up names of different scientists if they do not connect them to time periods. Building a mental timeline of major mathematical inventions is a good way to avoid such confusion in exam questions.

Final Answer:
The mathematician credited with inventing logarithms is John Napier.