Math Modeling Real-World Topics: Indy Racing
In this blog series, we're highlighting math modeling modules and articles that explore real-world issues that have broad implications. Today, we're talking about Indy racing.
Topic Summary
Ok, imagine this. Your first employer after you graduate from college, has decided to sponsor an Indy Racing League team for the Indy 500. And you need to create the math models that explain and justify various aspects of the project to your boss.
About the Module
In this Indy Racing math module, you will develop a model of tire performance as a function of ambient temperature, track temperature, and tire pressure. You also have to provide various informative facts about the racetrack, to be used in the program for the race, in particular the radius of the track corners and the volume of asphalt in the track.
The module details will help you determine the mathematical processes that need to be used and discuss all assumptions and limitations of your model.
How to Access the Module
This math modeling module is available with a free membership on the COMAP website. Sign up here to get access. Then, download the module here. Get the free Indy Racing module here.
Here are some other real-world math modeling modules we’ve featured lately:
- Math Modeling Real-World Topics: Voting Models
- Math Modeling Real-World Topics: Water Conservation
- Math Modeling Real-World Topics: Weight Loss
- Math Modeling Real-World Topics: Gerrymandering
Want even more free modules? Check out this list of 10 interesting math modules.
Written by
COMAP
The Consortium for Mathematics and Its Applications is an award-winning non-profit organization whose mission is to improve mathematics education for students of all ages. Since 1980, COMAP has worked with teachers, students, and business people to create learning environments where mathematics is used to investigate and model real issues in our world.