| Type of Document |
Master's Thesis |
| Author |
Ludu, Maria
|
| Author's Email Address |
mludu@ebrpss.k12.la.us |
| URN |
etd-07092009-093842 |
| Title |
Rate of Change with Applications in Physics Problems |
| Degree |
Master of Natural Sciences (M.N.S.) |
| Department |
Natural Sciences (Interdepartmental Program) |
| Advisory Committee |
| Advisor Name |
Title |
| James Madden |
Committee Chair |
| Dr. Guillermo Ferreyra |
Committee Member |
| Dr. Padmanaban Sundar |
Committee Member |
| Frank Neubrander |
Committee Member |
|
| Keywords |
|
| Date of Defense |
2009-07-07 |
| Availability |
unrestricted |
Abstract
In this thesis we approach the concept of Rate of Change as a mathematical model, and we apply it to a few physics problems. Its main goal is to help students to bridge concepts form mathematical models and the real life applications. We begin with a review of measurements, proportionality and similarity based on Euclidean geometry; then, we review linear and affine functions, and we introduce a mathematical model for the average and instantaneous rate of change. This mathematical model is applied to problems from physics following the four representations of functions: verbal, algebraic, tabular and graphical. By doing so, the main point is to show a unifying theme for mathematics and sciences, and the strong connections between the two. This thesis is intended to be a guide for teachers and students in Algebra and Calculus classes. The thesis consists of three main parts: a review of Euclidian geometry concepts and functions related to proportional reasoning, average rate of change and instantaneous rate of change with applications in physics problems.
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| Files |
| Filename |
Size |
Approximate Download Time
(Hours:Minutes:Seconds)
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| 28.8 Modem |
56K Modem |
ISDN (64 Kb) |
ISDN (128 Kb) |
Higher-speed Access |
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LuduThesis.pdf |
1.63 Mb |
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