Real World Mathematics

Real world applications

The links below show some real world applications of the mathematics you learn in A level Mathematics and Further Mathematics. If you would like solutions to the worksheets, please ask your teacher, who can obtain them through your local FMSP Area Coordinator.

• The maths of Google (PowerPoint)
• The maths of Google (Worksheet)
• Graphs and Euler Cycles (PowerPoint)
• Graphs and Euler Cycles (Worksheet)
• Vectors and Computer Graphics (Worksheet)

Mathematics Exemplars from Industry

2008

These exemplars were created as part of a competition ran by MEI and supported by the IMA. Information on the competition can be found here.

• The use of mathematics (mechanics) in the testing of an
  automotive engine component
• Jet engines with Pythagoras

2010

A simliar competition was held in 2010 - Photographs of the presentations of a certificate and £100 to each of the two winners of the 2010 competition can be seen below. The winning and highly commended exemplars then follow.

Cameron Blackwell

- Balfour Beatty Mott MacDonald

The photo shows Cameron receiving his prize from MEI's Stephen Lee. Charity Watkins, YinI Regional Director, and Cameron's managers also attended.

Joe Andrews

- Invensys Controls UK Ltd

The photo shows Joe being presented with his prize by Charlie Stripp, MEI Chief Executive. Joe's manager, Wayne Dunn, also attended the event.

Exemplars

• The Use of Mathematics in Train Wheelset Management
  William Balcombe
• Checking computer generated data
  Cameron Blackwell
• Use of Boolean Logic and Probabilistic Analysis in work
  Benjamin Brocklehurst
• The use of drag coefficients in hydrodynamics
  Helen Lacey
• Constructing platforms using trigonometry and geometry
  Hasnain Mir Mohammed
• Flow rates in fuel pipes
  Peter Moran
• In-flight refulling
  Cameron Smith

2011

The competition was held again in 2011 - Photographs of the presentations of a certificate and £100 to the winners of the 2011 competition can be seen below (Amy Roberts image is to be added). The winning and highly commended exemplars then follow.

Nilman Ekanayake

- PEI Genesis UK LTD

The photo shows Nilman receiving his prize from MEI's Programme Leader (Industry) Richard Browne. Kelly Sutherland, European HR Manager and Jamie McBride, Mechanical Excellence Team Leader also attended.

Exemplars

• Mathematical calculations used within Dixon ring characteristics
  Robert Alford
• Rotational Leg to Hull Stiffness for Tubular Legs in a Jack Up Rig
  Alex Dotsch
• How a Cyclone Works
  Jessie Fullenkemper
• Using mathematics to model the flight of a rocket
  Robin Herd
• Probability in control systems
  Amber Hilton
• Prototype lorry trailer development
  Lewis Jecketts
• Viscosity Temperature Graphs of Lubricants
  Eunjin Lee
• Use of trigonometry in calculating the Maximum orientation error in the manufacturing process
  Nilman Ekanayake
• Use of Pythagoras’s Theorem and Trigonometry in Analysis of a Bolted Connection
  Amy Roberts
• The Use of Statistics in Biodiversity Indicators
  Sophie Rogers
• Fixture and fittings
  Kester Sleeman
• The distribution of work to meet customer demand
  Kelly Streeter

The Maths inside

Examples of the maths behind science (exhibited at the Royal Society)
Stereo mission
Menger sponge
Clever
How do crabs and sharks sense depth
Graphical Passwords
How to hold a molecule