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- Title
Eratosthenes Meets the GPS.
- Authors
Cooper, Linda
- Abstract
Multiple representations of a problem encourage students to make and strengthen connections across mathematics. This article presents three solution methods that students can use to estimate the Earth's circumference. All solution methods involve proportional reasoning, require physical measurements, and draw upon basic concepts of geography, notably longitude and latitude. They range from a geometric representation first proposed by ancient Eratosthenes using simple measuring devices of meter sticks and protractors (with and without use of trigonometry) to the use of modern Global Positioning System (GPS) units.
- Subjects
MATHEMATICS problems &; exercises; GLOBAL Positioning System; TRIGONOMETRY; PROTRACTORS; GEOMETRY; GEOGRAPHY
- Publication
Ohio Journal of School Mathematics, 2010, Issue 62, p11
- ISSN
2472-5986
- Publication type
Article