Using Math in Physics: 2. Estimation

Abstract

Learning to use math in science is a non-trivial task. It involves many different skills (not usually taught in a math class) that help blend physical knowledge with mathematical symbology. One of these is the idea of quantification—that physical quantities can be assigned specific numbers (with a unit). A second is to develop an intuition for scale. One way to help students develop these skills is to teach estimation: the ability to consider a physical situation and put reasonable approximate numbers to it.