Mathematics in Modern World
Mathematics in Modern World
Mathematics in Modern World
Overview
Welcome to the first module of GE 1 (Mathematics in the Modern World)! This course begins with an
introduction to the nature of mathematics as an exploration of unseen patterns in nature and
environment, a rich language in itself governed by logic and reasoning, and an application of inductive
and deductive reasoning.
Section 1 is composed of the following: 1.1 Mathematics in our World; 1.2 Mathematics Language and
Symbols; and 1.3 Problem Solving and Reasoning. These topics will allow students to go beyond the
typical understanding of mathematics as purely a bunch of memorized formulas and duplicated
mathematical computations, but as a powerful tool used to understand better the world around us.
Moreover, we will discuss and argue about the nature of mathematics, what it is, and how it is
expressed, represented, and used. We will study mathematics as a language in order to read and write
mathematical texts and communicate ideas with precision and conciseness. We will also justify
statements and arguments made about mathematics and mathematical concepts using different
methods of reasoning.
Mathematics has always been perceived as a study of numbers, symbols, and rules. It is an art of
geometric shapes and patterns, a tool in decision-making and problem solving. It has a language that
differs from the ordinary speech. It is done with curiosity, with a penchant for seeking patterns and
generalities, with the desire to know the truth, with trial and error, and without the fear of facing more
questions and problems to solve. The following diagram shows the very nature of mathematics.
In this module, we will focus on Lesson 1.1 -Mathematics in our World (A Study of Patterns). The lesson
is anchored by the following core idea: Mathematics is a useful way to think about nature and the world.
Our intention is to observe things, in both in nature and the world, through pattern-seeking, understand
the substantial interconnection and relationship of the mathematics and the world, and appreciate
mathematics as a discipline full of essence and beauty
Learning Outcomes
3. argue about mathematics, what it is, how it is expressed, represented, and used; and
Activities To Do
(d)
(e)
Sources: (a) https://www.library.illinois.edu/mtx/2018/10/09/mathematics-in-nature/; (b);
https://www.weareteachers.com/teacher-dresses-ms-frizzle/ (c)
(<https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/science-behind-natures-patterns-180959033/
>)https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/science-behind-natures-patterns-180959033/;(d)
and (e) (<http://mustafacil-online.blogspot.com/2015/08/manmade-patterns.html>)http://mustafacil-
online.blogspot.com/2015/08/manmade-patterns.html
Questions To Ponder
• What are the different kinds and forms of patterns you have seen in the video and/or pictures?
• How does these patterns help us understand the connection between our world and mathematics?
Repeated ways or occurrences that happens or was done are also considered as patterns. For example,
the cycle of the moon, the changing seasons, and even the transmission pattern of the COVID 19
pandemic.
Patterns surround us. It is everywhere and are in every people’s task or activity.
Mathematics, developed by human mind and culture, is a formal system of thought for recognizing,
classifying, and exploiting patterns. (Stewart, I.). Mathematics is indeed a study of patterns. Results in
mathematics are brought by the generalizations of patterns. The study of patterns allows us to observe
and identify relationships, discover logical connections, and make generalizations. Moreover, the use
and study of patterns allows us to be logical thinkers and better problem solvers.
Solution
1. For this sequence, the difference between each term is 5. 3, 8, 13, 18, 23, __
⋁⋁⋁⋁⋁
⋁⋁⋁⋁⋁⋁
3 5 7 9 11 13 3 + 2 =
Examples 1 and 2 are usually seen on aptitude tests. Before we determine the next shape or number, we
have to observe the objects, look into their properties, and their relationship on other objects. In such a
way, we are allowed to hypothesize, predict, and construct generalizations based on the observed
patterns.
Patterns, such as geometric and word patterns, are also very common to us. Word patterns focused on
the morphological rules in pluralizing nouns, conjugating verbs for tense, and metrical rules of poetry.
Examples:
baby: babies
buy: bought
trolley: trollies
bring: brought
ally: ?
catch: ?
answer: allies answer: caught
While geometric patterns are designs that depict geometric shapes like lines, circles, and polygons.
Geometric patterns are observed in nature. These patterns are also associated to the identification of a
particular country and culture. Below are samples of geometric patterns that are associated to
Philippine ethnic groups and local regions.
(2)
http://alvicsbatik.weebly.com/mindanao-accessories---
(1) Tattoos in the Cordillera
When you draw an imaginary line across an object and the resulting parts are mirror images of each
other, we have shown a symmetry. The A figure above is symmetric about the axis indicated by the
broken line. This is called as line or bilateral symmetry and is common to animals and humans.
https://leonardodavinci.stanford.edu/submissions/clabaugh/today/health.html
Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man is an image of proportion and symmetry of the human body.
This flower has a three-fold symmetry.
Observe that if we rotate the flower and the starfish by several degrees, we can still have the same
appearance as the original position. This is called the rotational symmetry.
The smallest angle an object can be rotated while it is preserving its original formation is called the angle
of rotation.
A figure has a rotational symmetry of order 𝑛 (𝑛-fold rotational symmetry) if 1 of a complete𝑛 turn
leaves the figure unchanged.
Snowflakes and Honeycombs
Humans are also marveled with the almost perfect hexagonal shape arrangements in honeycombs.
https://listverse.com/2013/04/21/10-beautiful-examples-of-symmetry-in-nature/
The image on the right explains why mathematicians believed that hexagon is the most effective way of
storing honey. The hexagonal formation allows bees to store the largest possible amount of honey with
the use of the least amount of wax.
Peacock’s Tail
The patterns exhibited in animal’s external appearance has to do with their growth; their survival; and
even with their chances to attract their mates.
Symmetric and repeated patterns, enhanced with bright, beautiful colors, on the feathers of a peacock’s
tail are used to attract their mates.
Sunflower
Nature has gifted us with beautiful flowers. The brilliant colors, fragrant odors, petal arrangements, and
different sizes and number of petals make flowers very appealing. If we closely observe these flowers,
we can find interesting patterns.
For example, let us take a closer look on the orderly arrangement of sunflower seeds. We can see
clockwise and counterclockwise spirals extending outward from the center of the flower. Moreover, the
sunflower seed arrangement displays a very interesting numerical sequence called the Fibonacci
sequence. The Fibonacci sequence is 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, … and so on. Each number on the sequence is
determined by adding the two preceding numbers.
The number of seeds spirals in a sunflower adds up to a Fibonacci number. Spirals of many plants such
as pineapple and pinecones also add up a Fibonacci number.
Nautilus Shell
Another example that shows how nature seems to follow a certain set of rules governed by
mathematics is spiral patterns seen in a shell of a nautilus.
As the mollusk grows inside the shell, the shell also expands and attempts to maintain the same
proportional shape as it grows outward. This growth pattern results to refined spirals on the shell which
is very evident when it is sliced.
The image on the right is called the logarithmic spiral, also known as equiangular spirals. The image
shows a mathematical curve which has the property of maintaining a constant angle between the radius
and the tangent to the curve at any point on the curve. Equivalently, the property states that as the
distance from the spiral center increases (radius), the amplitudes of the angles formed by the radii to
the point and the tangent to the point remain constant.
World Population
Example
1. Substitute the given values in the formula 𝐴 = 𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑡 to find the missing quantity.
2. In the midyear of 2020, a country’s population is 109,581,078 with a growth rate of approximately
1.35% per year. What will be the country’s population in 2050?
3. The exponential growth model 𝐴 = 25𝑒0.02𝑡describes the population of a town in Northern Samar
in thousands, 𝑡 years after 1998. What was the population of the town in 1998?
Solution
1. a. To find the missing quantity, 𝐴, we substitute the given values to the formula:
𝑨 = 1,775,953
b. To find the missing quantity, 𝑡, we use the formula of 𝐴 to derive a formula for 𝑡. 𝐴
11 = 𝒕
Checking of the solution by substitution of the given values and the obtained answer will serve as your
exercise.
2. Given are the following quantities: 𝑃 = 109,581,078; 𝑟 = 1.35% = 0.0135; 𝑡 = 30 years (Subtract:
2050 – 2020)
3. Since the exponential growth model describes the population 𝑡 years after 1998, we consider 1998
as 𝑡 = 0 year and solve for the population size. 𝐴.
Self-Assessment Activity 2
1. Find the missing quantity in the formula 𝐴 = 𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑡 by substitution of the given values:
2. The exponential growth model 𝐴 = 45𝑒0.19𝑡 describes the population of a city in the Philippines in
thousands, t years after 1995.
Look around you. Try to observe for patterns in your bedroom, house, or backyard. Do they have
geometric patterns or numbers patterns? What makes these patterns appealing?
Form a rectangle using all of the squares. The measures of the sides are indicated in each square.
One of the answers to the puzzle is shown below:
Notice that the number pattern formed when the squares are placed side by side.
The sequence gives as 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8. Does this sequence looks familiar?
In the previous discussion, it is said that sunflower seed arrangement displays a very interesting
numerical sequences called the Fibonacci sequence.
The sequence is 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, … was discovered by an Italian named Leonard Pisano Bigollo who
is known in mathematical history by several names: Leonardo of Pisa and Fibonacci.
Fibonacci’s 1202 book “Liber Abaci” introduced the sequence to Western European mathematics,
although there are some claims that the sequence has been discovered earlier in Indian mathematics.
It is said that Fibonacci discovered the number sequence through a practical problem involving the
growth of a hypothetical population of rabbits based on idealized assumptions.
This problem has an assumption that a pair of rabbits will be born each month and will reproduce a new
pair of rabbits two months after they were born.
The assumption is illustrated below:
https://www.storyofmathematics.com/medieval_fibonacci.html
Clearly, each number on the sequence is determined by adding the two preceding numbers.
Here are some of man's greatest works that would reminds us of the Fibonacci sequence and the golden
ratio.
1. Find the next three terms of the sequence: 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, …
2. Let 𝐹𝑖𝑏(𝑛) be the nth term of the Fibonacci sequence, with 𝐹𝑖𝑏(1) = 1, 𝐹𝑖𝑏(2) = 1, 𝐹𝑖𝑏(3)
= 2, and so on.
a. Find 𝐹𝑖𝑏(10)
b. Find 𝐹𝑖𝑏(17)
Exampl Solution
e
1. To find the next three terms, we add the two preceding numbers: 5 + 8 = 13; 8 + 13 =
21; 13 + 21 = 34 Thus, the next three terms of the sequence are 13, 21, 34. Completing the
sequence, we have1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34.
The world and the universe are full of complexities and uncertainties. These are very evident in our day-
to-day living. From the simplest household chores to challenging and laborious tasks, from observation
and prediction of weather conditions and natural phenomena to its survival from the aftermath, from
legislation to implementation of governing laws, from theater shows to high definition videos and films;
from ancient navigational methods to global national satellite systems, these and the like are some of
the intricacies of the universe. With this, people of the ancient times and the modern world have
learned to live and to cope.
Technologies were invented and areas of knowledge were cultivated for better understanding of the
underlying aspects that would lead to the world’s development. Furthermore, contexts of the real world
and the universe were revealed for varied reasons through science and mathematics.
Man’s exploration of the world began with its curiosity of the objects within and outside Earth’s surface.
The Babylon were successful in predicting eclipses. Aristarchus of Samos, determined that the sun is the
center of the universe through mathematical computation. Hipparchus calculated the size of the moon
and its distance from Earth, and determined specific locations of geographical points through the use of
longitude and latitude measurements. The earliest civilizations of Babylon, China, and Egypt devised
calendars and completed public works, such as irrigational canals for agricultural purposes. Tax
collections were made possibly easy when Blaise Pascal invented the world’s first digital calculator when
the first mechanical computer was invented by Charles Babbage. (Todd, 2003)
Computations done by scientists and mathematicians paved the way to greater discoveries and
creations of expedient methods, devices, and tools. Galileo Galilei who invented the first thermometer
was able to measure temperatures of water and air. Similarly, Gabriel Daniel Fahrenheit introduced the
boiling and freezing points of liquid when he invented the first mercury thermometer. James Gregory’s
invention of reflecting telescope, and Ole Roemer’s calculations of measuring the speed of light made
great contributions to physics and other related fields. (Todd, 2003)
Isaac Newton’s explanation of the Universal Law of Gravitation and Laws of Motion, and Albert’s
Einstein Theory of Relativity, the motion particles when suspended within a liquid, and the mathematical
formula e = mc2 are some of the notable contributions in the field of science and mathematics.
In its purest sense, mathematics is an abstraction. It is extremely useful in describing and predicting
events of the world. It has the ability to model effectively numerous aspects of the world by creating
abstract structures that have properties or attributes to its real-world counterparts. Models, if they
behave in a manner that truly parallel with originals, are used to make conclusions and/or predictions
about the real world. (Post, 1981)
Mathematics finds wide applications in arts, nature, music, medicine, chemistry, biology, astronomy,
and in other disciplines. The artist of antiquity and of the modern times described their works using the
Golden Ratio and Fibonacci Numbers. They are very evident in paintings, architecture, sculpture, dance,
and even in music. Throughout the ages, music and mathematics go hand-in-hand when Pythagoras was
able to establish a fundamental relationship between vibrating strings and harmony. Today, music is
stored and played digitally. The sound production, recording, and engineering use advanced technology
equipped with mathematics and science.
Nicolas Copernicus, by using uniform circular motion, modelled that the planets revolved around the
sun. The Heliocentrism paved the way to greater discoveries and explorations of the solar system.
Mathematics calculations are used to launch satellites, rockets and other space robes, and used to
describe the natural order and occurrences of the universe.
In medicine, mathematics is use to: 1) predict complex medical situations; 2) model biological processes
that underlie a disease, and 3) develop formulas from chemistry and physics, and medical technologies.
(Lerner and Lerner, 2006).
In this section, we have just seen how mathematics help our lives better and make the world a better
place to live in. As we learn mathematical concepts, we also apply them in our day-to-day interactions
and in solving societal problems. Moreover, mathematics is useful in making conclusions and/or
predictions of the events of the world. It is used to organize patterns and regularities as well as
irregularities. It is, therefore, mathematics is considered an integral part of our world.
Summary
The lessons in Section 1 (1.1 Mathematics in our World) allow us to “get-to-know” mathematics. Far
from the idea that it is full of difficulties and complexities, mathematics is a study of patterns, an art, a
language, a process of thinking, and a set of problem-solving tools.
We were able to see through the beauty of the world through observed patterns that are mathematical
in nature. Patterns that are in the natural objects and man-made creations. The ratios of the Fibonacci
sequence (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, …) converge to the Golden Ratio that made these creations more
aesthetically pleasing.
With a careful understanding, we were able to see the beauty and the significance of mathematics in
our day-to-day living. We are reminded how evident mathematics in the world. The module has bought
us to realization the usefulness of mathematics that makes our lives better and our world a better place
to live.
Responses To Consider
After working with this module, what are the new ideas about mathematics did you learn? What is it
about mathematics that might have changed your thoughts about it? What is most useful about
mathematics for humankind?
You are encouraged to provide a lecture notebook where you can write all your responses and solutions
to the activities and SAAs. Answers to SAAs are provided at the bottom part of the page. If you have
difficulty in obtaining the correct answer, you can go over again with the examples. To be successful in
mathematics, you have to do mathematics. Do it without the fear of facing more problems and
questions to solve. For further understanding, use the references, suggested readings, and other
materials indicated in the module.
References
Aufmann, R., Lockwood, J., et.al, Mathematics in the Modern World, Rex Bookstore, Inc., 2018. Lerner, K.L., Lerner, B.W., Real-life Math, Vol. 2, Thomson Gale, 2006. Nocon, R.,
Nocon, E., Essential Mathematics for the Modern World, C & E Publishing, Inc. 2018.
Post, T.R., The Role of Manipulative Materials in the Learning Mathematical Concepts. Retrieved from:
http://www.cehd.umm.edu/ci/rationalnumberproject/81_4.html
Images Sources:
hhtp://www.jobtestprep.co.uk www.psychometric-success.com https://www.library.illinois.edu/mtx/2018/10/09/mathematics-in-nature/ https://www.weareteachers.com/
teacher-dresses-ms-frizzle/ https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/science-behind-natures-patterns-180959033/ http://mustafacil-online.blogspot.com/2015/08/
manmade-patterns.html https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/941295/batok-tattooing-tattooing-mambabatok https://www.our7107islands.com/basey-samar-the-new-banig-capital-of-
the-philippines/ http://alvicsbatik.weebly.com/mindanao-accessories---page2.html
https://www.benefits-of-honey.com/honeycomb-
pattern.html#:~:text=Studies%20on%20the%20geometry%20of,and%20square%20makes %20smaller
%20area.
https://www.bigwalls.net/climb/ca https://listverse.com/2013/04/21/10-beautiful-examples-of-symmetry-in-nature/ mf/index.html https://www.storyofmathematics.com/
medieval_fibonacci.html
Other Materials
Suggested Readings
Stewart, Ian, Nature’s Numbers Adam, John A., Mathematics in Nature: Modeling Patterns in the natural World Adam, John A., A Mathematical Nature Walk Akiyama & Ruis, A Day’s
Note To Students
You can discuss the lessons with your GE 1 instructor/professor through the different modes of
communication (email, Messenger, Moodle, Google Meet, Zoom, Google classroom, etc.). Your GE 1
instructor/professor will contact you using the email address and/or mobile number who have provided
the University upon your registration.
If you have not received a message from your assigned faculty at least two (2) weeks from the
resumption of classes (October 5, 2020), please send your concerns to the Department of Mathematics
Chair using the following address: (<mailto:mjcalpacsuep@gmail.com>)mjcalpauepcs@gmail.com, or
through your respective municipal links. Please include your FULL NAME, STUDENT NUMBER, COURSE –
YEAR, and GE 1 CLASS ID NUMBER.
2. Please check the date of submission indicated on the student’s information below. Thank you.
WORKSHEET 1
To the Students:
1. Fill out the “Student’s Information” completely.
2. Write all your solutions/answers on the space provided below each item.
Student’s Information:
Student
Last Name, First Name M.I.: Course – Year:
Number:
A. Answer completely.
b. What is the next figure? Draw your answer on the empty block.
5. The exponential growth model A = 1.5𝑒 0.015𝑡 describes the number of tourists of a beach resort in
thousands, 𝑡 years after 2000.
6. A house was purchased for ₱1,000,000 in 2002. The value of the house is given by the exponential
growth model A = 1,000,000𝑒 0.645𝑡 . Find 𝑡 when the house would be worth ₱5,000,000.
𝐹𝑖𝑏(𝑛+1) 7. The ratio as 𝑛 gets larger is said to approach the Golden Ratio, which is 𝐹𝑖𝑏(𝑛) 𝐹𝑖𝑏(𝑛)
approximately equal to 1.618. What happens to the inverse of this ratio, ? What 𝐹𝑖𝑏(𝑛+1) number does
this quantity approach? How does this compare to the original ratio?
8. A wood 120 meters in length is to be cut into two parts such that the ratio of the parts constitutes
the Golden Ratio. What must be the lengths of the woods?
10. Answer completely: What is the importance of mathematics in my chosen field of specialization?
Examples: “What is the importance of mathematics in community development? in agriculture? in
biology? in political science? in forestry? in environmental science? Cite references and use extra A4-size
bond paper if necessary.
(You may provide separate A4 -size bond paper/s or you may also use this page.)
• Look for patterns in nature. Write a 1-to 2-page report about the observed patterns. Include a
picture of these patterns.
• Create your family tree up to the third generation using lines, shapes, or any geometrical figures.