Roman numerals are not used as commonly as Arabic numerals for several reasons:
Complexity: Roman numerals are less straightforward than Arabic numerals, especially for larger numbers or more complex mathematical operations. They can be challenging to read and understand quickly.
Positional System: Arabic numerals use a positional system where the value of each digit depends on its position relative to other digits. This makes calculations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division much simpler and more efficient.
Universality: Arabic numerals have become the standard system for number representation globally, making communication and trade easier across different cultures.
Zero Representation: The concept of zero was not part of the Roman numeral system. It's difficult to represent concepts such as zero or negative values with Roman numerals, which limits their usefulness in modern mathematics and science.
Standardization: Arabic numerals are standardized, which means that there is little room for confusion or misinterpretation. In contrast, Roman numerals can be prone to ambiguity, especially when dealing with numbers greater than 3,999 (MMMCMXCIX).
Computational Efficiency: With advancements in technology and the need for speed in processing information, the simplicity and efficiency of Arabic numerals make them the preferred choice for various calculations and data representations.
Historical Replacement: Over time, the benefits and efficiency of Arabic numerals have been widely recognized. As a result, they have largely replaced Roman numerals in practical use, except for specific contexts like numbering clock faces, book chapters, or film series titles.
While Roman numerals have a historical and cultural significance, Arabic numerals offer significant advantages in terms of functionality, ease of use, and universal acceptance.