Suanpan Abacus
Free Suanpan Abacus for math. Enter values to solve step-by-step with verified formulas, worked examples, and detailed explanations. Free math tool.
Formula
Value = (Heaven × 5) + Earth
Count beads moved towards the central beam. Upper beads are 5, lower beads are 1.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Number 7
Problem:How to represent 7?
Solution:Move 1 Heaven bead down (5) and 2 Earth beads up (2). 5 + 2 = 7.
Result:7
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Suanpan?
The Suanpan is the traditional Chinese abacus. It typically has 2 beads in the upper deck (Heaven) and 5 beads in the lower deck (Earth) per rod, distinguishing it from the Japanese Soroban (1:4) or modern abaci (1:5).
Is the Suanpan still used today?
Yes, it is still taught in some schools to develop mental arithmetic skills and is used by some shopkeepers in Asia as a quick calculator alongside electronic ones.