The Lifeguard Problem
applied
A classic problem with many personal takes - Explore the mathematical principles and create your own unique investigation.
Introduction
How would you model the crossing of a body of water like Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) or the Mediterranean Sea? They're called optimal path problems, do your research too.
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
Optimization
Physics
Calculus
Snell's Law