Length of a Roll of Paper

Introduction

My father once asked me a similar question so he could understand how long a roll was likely to last based on the remaining diameter. How much paper is left on this roll? How could you estimate it?

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