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Lesson 3.

Mathematics for our World


Objectives:
In this lesson, you are expected to:

1. Recognized the importance of Mathematics in our world


2. Appreciate Mathematics in our daily life.

Lesson Proper:
Mathematics reveals hidden patterns that help us to understand the world around us. Now, much
more than arithmetic and geometry, mathematics today is a diverse discipline that deals with data,
measurements and observations from science, with inference, deduction, and proof; and with
mathematical models of natural phenomena, of human behavior, and of social systems. Math is a
powerful tool for global understanding and communication.

Mathematics is often studied as a pure science, but is typically applied to other disciplines, extending
well beyond physics and engineering. For instance, studying exponential growth and decay (the rate
at which things grow and die) within the context of population growth, the spread of disease, or water
contamination, is meaningful. Algebra can explain how quickly water becomes contaminated and
how many people in a third-world country drinking that water might become sickened on a yearly
basis. A study of geometry can explain the science behind architecture throughout the world. In a
similar vein, a study of statistics and probability is key to understanding many of the events of the
world.
Mathematics for Organization

A lot of events happen around us. In a blink of an eye, several children have already been born, liters
of water have been consumed, or thousands of tweets have been posted. For us to make sense of all
available information, we need mathematical tools to help us make sound analysis and better
decisions. For instance, a particular store can gather data on the shopping habits of its customers and
make necessary adjustments to help drive sales. Scientist can plot bird migration routes to help
conserve endangered animal populations. Social media analysts can crunch all online postings using
software to gauge the netizens’ sentiments on particular issues or personalities.
Software can generate a map of words that are most talked about. The bigger
the font, the more netizens are talking about the concept or topic.

In global connection, mathematics is used to model situations or events in the world, explanations of
how the complexity and interrelatedness of situations or events in the world are reflected in the
model, data generated by the model to make and defend a decision; and a decision or conclusion
supported by the mathematics within the context of a global community.

Mathematics for prediction


Statistics and probability can estimate death tolls from earthquakes, conflicts and other calamities
around the world. It can also predict profits, how ideas spread, and how previously endangered
animals might repopulate. many world events and phenomena are unpredictable and can only be
described using statistical models. Probability and statistics can be used to estimate death tolls from
natural disasters, such as earthquakes and tsunamis; the amount of aid that might be necessary to
help in the aftermath; and the number people who would be displaced. In a similar vein, a study of
statistics and probability is key to understanding many of the event of the world.
Predictions with math would be best referred to as forecasting which is making an educated guess
based on recurring patterns of activity. Based on historical patterns, meteorologist can make forecast
to help us prepare for our day to day activities. They can also warn us of weather disturbances that
can affect our activities for weeks or months. Astronomers also use patterns to predict the occurrence
of meteor showers or eclipses. In 2017, announcements were made about heavenly phenomena such
as the Draconid Meteor Shower and “The Great American Eclipse”. They were able to tell when these
phenomena would occur and where would be the best place to view them.
Does that mean that math can provide predictions that possess 100% accuracy? No, it would be next
to impossible to make a 100% accurate prediction. But, a prediction based on solid data can allow
you to make an assumption that is as close to the likelihood of accuracy than not and this is clearly
very valuable.

Mathematics for control


We have demonstrated by means of examples around us that patterns are definitely present in the
universe. There seems to be an underlying mathematical structure in the way that natural objects
and phenomenon behave. While photographers could capture a single moment through a snapshot,
videographers could record events as they unfold. Painters and sculptors could create masterpieces
in interpreting their surroundings, poets could use beautiful words to describe an object, and
musicians could capture and reproduce sounds that they hear. These observations of nature, as well
as their interactions and relationships, could be more elegantly described by means of mathematical
equations. It is interesting then to ponder on how mathematics, an invention of the human mind,
seems to permeate the natural laws that hold the universe together. There have been instances when
a natural phenomenon has been speculated to exist because mathematics says so but no hard
evidence have been found to support its existence. Such phenomena were proven to exist only when
advancements in technology have allowed us to expand our horizons. Though the use of mathematics,
man is also able to exert control over himself and the effects of nature. The treat of climate change
and global warming has been the subject of much debate over the years. It is believed that unless man
changes his behavior, patterns are said to indicate that sea level could rise to catastrophic levels as
the polar caps melt due to the increase in global temperatures. To ensure that greenhouse gas
concentrations in the atmosphere are kept at levels that would not interfere with the climate system,
the United States
Cloud seeding. Humans interfering with mother nature to
bring us more of the good stuff. It sounds too good to be
true, but studies point to a snowfall increase of 3-10%
during an entire season, and a Summit Daily news article
lists 10% as an average increase, reports meteorologist
and powder reporter Joel Gratz of opensnow.com.

Mathematics is indispensable
How is it possible that mathematics, a product of human thought that is independent of
experience, fits so excellently the objects of reality? - Albert Einstein

In this lesson, it was highlighted how mathematics plays a huge role in the underpinnings of our
world. We have seen it in living creatures and natural phenomena. We have also looked at examples
of how mathematical concepts could be applied. Whether you are on your way to becoming a doctor,
engineer, an entrepreneur, or a chief, a knowledge of mathematics will be helpful. At the most basic
level, logical reasoning and critical thinking are crucial skills that are needed in any endeavor. As
such, the study of mathematics should be embraced as it paves the way for more educated decisions
and in a way, brings us closer to understanding the natural world.

References
Aufmann, R., Lockwood, J., Nation, R. and Clegg, D.,(2018) Mathematics in the
Modern World, Rex Book Store Inc. Manila, Philippines
https://www.wired.com/2013/04/cliodynamics-peter-turchin/
https://asiasociety.org/education/understanding-world-through-math
http://www.mathworksheetscenter.com/mathtips/mathandpredictions
https://snowbrains.com/cloud-seeding-make-difference/

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