How Much Stone?
applied
How would you model this? - Explore the mathematical principles and create your own unique investigation.
Introduction
How could you determine the volume of stone required to construct this bridge? Are the arches semicircular, parabolic or some other curve? Could you use calculus to determine the cross-sectional area?
Guiding Questions
- What mathematical models apply to this situation?
- What data do you need to collect and how will you analyze it?
- What assumptions are you making in your mathematical model?
- How can you validate your mathematical conclusions?
- What are the limitations of your approach?
Key Mathematical Concepts
Applied Calculus
Bridge Engineering
Catenary Curves
Structural Design