New Perspectives in Science Education

Edition 13

Accepted Abstracts

Parameterization of Whirling Inner Circles

Tanja Van Hecke, Ghent University (Belgium)

Abstract

Optical illusions attract young people because they are surprising and mysterious. They can also be used as a starting point for a mathematical topic such as parametrization of planar curves. From a mathematical point of view, this paper describes the path of fixed points on a circle while whirling inside a larger circle. A surprising linear path is evoked under specific conditions and is analyzed by mathematical parameterization, which can be used to start discussing parameterizations of planar curves in a calculus course at university first degree level. Moreover, we provide Maple-code to foster student exploration of paths on whirling inner circles. A description of the implementation and students’ reactions in our own calculus classes is added.

Keywords: parameter; modeling; geometry.

References:
[1] ADAMS, R. & ESSEX, C. (2013) Calculus. Canada: Pearson.
[2] HARRISON, M.C. & AFIMA (1993) Parametric curves: an introduction to curve design. Teaching Mathematics and it Applications, 4 (1), 167-173.
[3] ROSE-HENIG, A. & SHAPIRO, A. (2013) A comparison of hypocycloid perception produced by two different elemental constructions. Journal of Vison, 13 (9), 819–819

Back to the list

REGISTER NOW

Reserved area


Media Partners:

Click BrownWalker Press logo for the International Academic and Industry Conference Event Calendar announcing scientific, academic and industry gatherings, online events, call for papers and journal articles
Pixel - Via Luigi Lanzi 12 - 50134 Firenze (FI) - VAT IT 05118710481
    Copyright © 2024 - All rights reserved

Privacy Policy

Webmaster: Pinzani.it