Real-Life Math
Today's fighter jets are computer-controlled marvels of technology.
Computers do nearly every type of calculation a fighter pilot needs done.
But that doesn't mean they don't have to know how to do them.
In
fact, fighter pilots must be strong in math, and they undergo rigorous training.
"It's got to be second nature to you," says Jack Redmond, a retired fighter
pilot.
Pilots learn to make the calculations because it gives them
a better understanding of what their specific mission is.
Sometimes,
though, pilots need to make quick, on-the-spot estimates to validate the computer's
calculations.
For instance, the trajectory of a missile is figured
out through a complex calculus formula with more than 15 steps. However, an
estimate can be made.
As you are flying toward a target, you want to
get an estimate of how far away you should be when you launch your missile.
You use the following formula:
(Distance from target in
meters x 1.5) + altitude in meters
You are flying at
0.9 miles and are 0.8 miles from your target. What is the trajectory distance?
Remember:
1 mile = 1.6 km