What is bematists?

Bematists were ancient Greek geometers who specialized in the measurement of depth and volume, specifically in measuring land and water surfaces. The term "bematist" comes from the Greek word "bema," which means "step" or "raised platform." Bematists were known for their skills in surveying, leveling, and determining the area and volume of fields, buildings, and waterways. They used a variety of instruments, including the groma, dioptra, and chorobates, to make their measurements and calculations. Bematists played a crucial role in ancient Greek society, where accurate measurement of land and water was essential for agriculture, trade, and military defense. Some notable ancient Greek bematists include Democritus, Hippocrates of Chios, and Eudoxus of Cnidus.