Cube Watermelons
Geometry & Trigonometry
Expensive but not optimised? - Explore the mathematical principles and create your own unique investigation.
Where this idea comes from
Start here — this is the source that inspired this exploration.
Introduction
Explore the difference in volume to a perfectly spherical watermelon.
Guiding Questions
- Japanese farmers grow cube-shaped watermelons. For a given amount of melon, which shape has the least surface area?
- Compare a cube and a sphere of equal volume. How much more rind area does the cube have?
- Cubes pack better in boxes. Quantify the trade-off: wasted box space versus extra surface.
- Is there a shape between cube and sphere that balances packing and surface? Explore one.