Mathematical Modelling – University Tutorial With Dr Paul Hammerton From University of East Anglia

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In this live interactive Mathematics tutorial, we will be joined by Dr Paul Hammerton, Associate Professor in Engineering Mathematics and Computation in the School of Engineering, Mathematics and Physics at University of East Anglia, who will explore Mathematical Modelling.

The full context/introduction to this live and interactive discussion is provided by UEA in a Headliner recorded resource (see below) which can be watched as a class activity or independently in preparation for the live discussion.

Imagine the scene. A golf ball is hit with a particular club at a known speed. The golfer needs to know if the ball will clear the lake in front of the green and roll towards the hole, or drop into the lake and cost extra strokes. In this talk we will show how mathematical modelling can be used to try to solve this problem. Typically, mathematical modelling involves taking a practical problem and making some simplifying assumptions. Mathematical equations are then formulated and these are solved in order to make predictions. In our case we are looking for equations that describe the path that the golf ball takes through the air. When solved, these equations can be used to predict the range – the horizontal distance travelled before it hits the ground. We will begin by assuming that gravity is the only force acting on the ball – a problem perhaps familiar to those of you studying A-level Mathematics or Physics. We will then compare the range predicted by this model, with the results of observations. Next we will consider what other forces may be acting on ball, and how these may improve the accuracy of our prediction of the range. We find that hyperbolic functions arise when studying the speed of a ball moving through the air. These are likely to be new to most of you, but we will look at some of the properties of these functions. Finally, we will look at how the modelling used for the trajectory of a golf ball may need to be modified when looking at the motion of a cricket ball.

Lecturer Profile: Dr Paul Hammerton

Our events are designed so that a group of students can take part from a classroom, or students and teachers can take part as individuals, either from school or from home. There is no charge for taking part.

As a live, participative event, this session will not be recorded but access to the Headliner recording will continue to be accessible.

Suitable for: Aged 16+ pre-university students studying, or with a possible interest in studying, Mathematics, Physics and related subjects. Teachers and members of school staff, as always, are welcome too and participants can join as individuals from school/college or home, or as a group from school/college.

Preparation/Pre-Reading: Students are asked to watch the Headliner recording and consider some of the key issues and any questions raised.

The IT Setup: The event will be run on Zoom and participants will be able to join using laptops, tablets, and mobile devices. If you are joining as a school group, we recommend connecting with one device and projecting on to a whiteboard. You will be able to interact with the university via typed comments and questions and/or via a microphone. Full details will be sent to those who have registered (see below) prior to the event.

Booking a Place: This is free for schools and colleges. If you would like to take part in this event, please register your interest using the link to the registration form below:

Register here