Document Type
Conference Presentation
Publication Date
1-7-2017
Department
Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science
Keywords
mathematical models, differential equations, physical science, dry ice
Abstract
The first day of many mathematics classes contains formalities and very little mathematics. Here an alternative is presented where modeling is placed as the centerpiece to orient students to the real work of differential equations. Namely, to capture as beautifully and compactly as possible through the process of conjecture and investigation, the deep and interesting aspects of the physical world. A demonstration of the sublimation of dry ice sits at the center of the lesson. Students collaborate in groups to design an experiment that could measure the change in mass of a piece of dry ice that is dropped into water, the experiment is then carried out, and finally the students (with some guidance) build and solve a model for the phenomenon. I will also present my reflections on the lesson as well as guidance and resources for use in the differential equations classroom.
Recommended Citation
Clark, T. (2017). Weighing Fog: Hands on Modeling for Day 1 of Differential Equations. Retrieved from https://digitalcollections.dordt.edu/faculty_work/639
Comments
Presented at the 2017 Joint Mathematics Meetings held January 4-7, 2017, in Atlanta, Georgia.