Lesson 5B: Solving Problems using Polynomial Functions
Mathematical modelling is the process of using mathematical structures such as graphs and equations to model real-world situations. Mathematical models represent the core of a situation without extra information. For instance, the equation a = b + 6 removes the unnecessary words from the original statement: Alison is 6 years older than her sister Brenda is. The model reduces the problem to its essential parts, making it easier to study.
Mathematical models are useful tools for many people.
- Engineers study the effects of traffic on a bridge.
- Telephone companies want to know the best price to charge for long distance service.
- Social scientists wish to predict trends in population and disease.
Models can be used as cost-saving devices. For example, a jet engine manufacturer could design a mathematical model and conduct simulations on a computer. This eliminates the cost of building real engines for testing purposes.
The focus of this Training Camp is to determine an accurate mathematical model to fit given data and to use the model to solve problems.
By the end of this lesson, you should be able to
graph data and determine the polynomial function that best fits the data interpret the graph of a polynomial function that models a situation, and explain your reasoning use technology to solve a problem that involves data best modelled by a polynomial function
