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Math 101 – Mathematics in the Modern World

This course provides the students with the conceptual understanding of the
nature of mathematics, appreciation of its practical, intellectual and aesthetic
dimensions and application of mathematics in the modern world. Specifically, the
topics mainly include the nature of mathematics and mathematics as a tool.
Furthermore, elective topics include geometric designs, codes, linear
programming, mathematics of finance, apportionment and voting, logic,
mathematics of graphs, and mathematical systems.
1. Mathematics in our World
1.1 Nature of Mathematics
1.2 Patterns in Nature
1.3 Fibonacci Numbers
1.4 Golden Ratio
Mathematics in our World
1.1 Nature of Mathematics

Is mathematics invented or discovered?


Mathematics is partly invented
- The beginning of mathematics is a human invention.
- It began as a method to represent thoughts about quantity,
form, pattern, and change.
- The concept of a number is an early manifestation of the
concept of quantity which gradually evolved into a
primitive number system, i.e. distinguish 1 cow from 2 cows, etc.
Mathematics in our World
1.1 Nature of Mathematics

Mathematics is partly invented.


- Numbers have been invented to quantify time.
- Notches were carved on the bone to track menstrual
cycle of women.
- Sexagesimal System (base 60) was invention by the
Sumerians by tracking the movement of the celestial
bodies, managing irrigations, etc.
- People invented the early counting numbers (natural).
Mathematics in our World
1.1 Nature of Mathematics

Mathematics is partly invented.


- Hindu-Arabic Numeration System (base 10) was a
combined invention by the Indians and Arabs.
- Binary system (base 2) introduced by G. W. Leibniz is
the foundation of binary logic used in the modern
computer.
- Sir Isaac Newton and Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz
independently invented calculus as the study of change.
- Mathematical notations are invented by man.
Mathematics in our World
1.1 Nature of Mathematics

Much of Mathematics is discovered.


- People invented the early counting numbers , but the
succeeding propositions and properties were discovered like
prime numbers, properties of numbers, remainder, etc.
- Pythagorean Theorem is one of the early mathematical
discoveries which had impact a huge impact to architecture.
The theorem was discovered from the five axioms or postulates
in the Euclidean geometry (logical reasoning, axiomatic).
- Foundation of mathematics is invented, but what followed next
came by way of discovery.
Mathematics in our World
1.1 Nature of Mathematics

What is Mathematics?
 Mathematics has no universally accepted definition (Tobies, 2012)

 Mathematics is the science of quantity. Aristotle (384-322 BCE)

 Mathematics is a science that draws necessary conclusions.


(Benjamin Pierce (1809-1880)

 All mathematics is symbolic logic. Bertrand Russel (1872-1970)


Mathematics in our World
1.1 Nature of Mathematics

What is Mathematics?
 Mathematics is the science that deals with the logic of shape, quantity and
arrangement. (https://www.livescience.com)

 A formal system of thoughts for reorganizing, classifying, and exploring things


which involve patterns, numbers, axiomatic processes, or logical reasoning

 Mathematics is a study of patterns and relationships, a way of thinking, an art


characterized by order and internal consistency, a language that uses carefully
defined terms and symbols, and a set of problem solving tools.
Mathematics in our World
1.1 Nature of Mathematics
Mathematics in our World
1.1 Nature of Mathematics

What is Mathematics about?


numbers, symbols, notations
operations, equations/inequalities, functions/relations, sets
patterns(geometric or numerical)
proofs(axiomatic processes or logical reasoning)
Mathematics in our World
1.1 Nature of Mathematics

Where is Mathematics?
We see hints or clues of it…

in nature
in our daily routine
in people and communities
in events
Mathematics in our World
1.1 Nature of Mathematics

What is Mathematics for?


 provides tools for calculations
 organizes patterns and regularities as well as irregularities
 enables us to make projections
 helps predict the behavior of nature and many phenomena
 helps control nature and occurrences in the world for our own good.
 provides new questions to think about
Mathematics in our World
1.1 Nature of Mathematics

How is Mathematics done?


 with curiosity
 with a penchant for seeking patterns and generalities
 with the desire to know the truth
 with trial and error
 without fear of facing more questions and problems to
 With tenacity or willingness to keep working
Mathematics in our World
1.1 Nature of Mathematics

Who use Mathematics?


Mathematicians (pure, applied)
Scientists (natural, social)
Generally everyone
(different people use different math at
different times for different purposes, using
different tools, with different attitudes)
Mathematics in our World
1.2 Patterns in Nature

- The early mathematical exercise is to count the cycle of


lunar phases.
4 primary moon phases: New Moon, First Quarter, Full Moon, Third Quarter (Last Quarter)

- Frequently observed patterns in Nature and in the World:


- Honey comb (hexagon) - Snowflake (symmetry, fractal) - Tiger/Zebra’s stripes
- Hyena’s spots - Sunflower (spiral) - Snail’s Shell(spiral)
- Flower’s Petals - Weather Patterns - Ocean waves
- Human productivity (80:20 % rule) - Economic Phenomenon (up/down)
Mathematics in our World
1.3 Fibonacci Numbers
Mathematics in our World
1.3 Fibonacci Numbers
Mathematics in our World
1.3 Fibonacci Numbers
Mathematics in our World
1.3 Fibonacci Numbers
Mathematics in our World
1.3 Fibonacci Numbers
Mathematics in our World
1.3 Fibonacci Numbers
Mathematics in our World
1.3 Fibonacci Numbers
Mathematics in our World
1.3 Fibonacci Numbers
Mathematics in our World
1.3 Fibonacci Numbers
Mathematics in our World
1.3 Fibonacci Numbers
Mathematics in our World
1.4 Golden Ratio
Mathematics in our World
1.4 Golden Ratio
Mathematics in our World
1.4 Golden Ratio
The END

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