Real-Life Math
Marine mammal scientists use math on a daily basis for a multitude
of reasons, depending on their particular job.
Brenda Jensen, a graduate
student and marine mammal toxicologist, works on the susceptibility of beluga
whales to persistent marine pollutants. Belugas reside in the St. Lawrence
estuary, which has been exposed to large amounts of contaminants.
"I
use math quite a bit in this field," says Jensen. "During experiments, I need
to know how to use the numbers that I generate and figure out what they mean
by using statistics to compare numbers in certain computer programs. I have
a good understanding of higher level math -- calculus and above, which is
necessary to conduct and understand my experiments with the belugas."
Math
may be used for simple tasks too, such as figuring out the number of calories
an animal has taken in and calculating if it's the appropriate amount for
the animal's health and well-being, according to age and size.
A
whale-watching guide may use math to track migratory habits of whales.
You
are a whale-watching guide. The last known coordinates for Bessie the whale
were north of your current location by 1,537 nautical miles, 14 days ago.
You know she is headed south toward your location. If Bessie travels at a
speed of 4 nautical miles per hour, how much longer will it take her to get
to where you are?