In geometry, Cavalieri's principle, a modern implementation of the method of indivisibles, named after Bonaventura Cavalieri, is as follows:2-dimensional case: Suppose two regions in a plane are included between two parallel lines in that plane. If every line parallel to these two lines intersects both regions in line segments of equal length, then the two regions have equal areas.
3-dimensional case: Suppose two regions in three-space (solids) are included between two parallel planes. If every plane parallel to these two planes intersects both regions in cross-sections of equal area, then the two regions have equal volumes.
Bonaventura Cavalieri, the mathematician the principle is named after.
Bonaventura Francesco Cavalieri was an Italian mathematician and a Jesuate. He is known for his work on the problems of optics and motion, work on indivisibles, the precursors of infinitesimal calculus, and the introduction of logarithms to Italy. Cavalieri's principle in geometry partially anticipated integral calculus.
Bonaventura Cavalieri
Geometrical figures from Lo Speccio Ustorio, used in proofs of properties of parabolic reflecting surfaces.
The frontispiece of the Geometria indivisibilibus.
Monument to Cavalieri by Giovanni Antonio Labus, Palazzo di Brera, Milan, 1844