The superformula of nature, introduced by Dutch botanist J. Gielis to describe a wide range of shapes, is examined from the educational point of view. According to our experience, it reveals an optimal chance to propose important knowledge also in university courses of "weak" mathematics. Students become acquainted with graphic representation of functions , polar coordinates and the concept of mathematical model; moreover, they train themselves for a conscious use of parameters. It also offers the opportunity of a critical use of technology.

A magic formula of nature

Primo Brandi;Anna Salvadori
2018

Abstract

The superformula of nature, introduced by Dutch botanist J. Gielis to describe a wide range of shapes, is examined from the educational point of view. According to our experience, it reveals an optimal chance to propose important knowledge also in university courses of "weak" mathematics. Students become acquainted with graphic representation of functions , polar coordinates and the concept of mathematical model; moreover, they train themselves for a conscious use of parameters. It also offers the opportunity of a critical use of technology.
2018
978-80-227-4765-3
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11391/1425723
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