Mathematics Exhibition

Mathematics in Technology

The Mathematics Exhibition held on the 70th Independence Day, 15th August, 2017, clearly elucidated the words quoted by Bill Gates “We are changing the world with technology.”

Each corner of the exhibition room was a celebration of Mathematics in technology. The focus of the exhibition was on application of Mathematics in the fields of architecture, banking, finger printing, calculators, binary numbers, packaging, online games and GPS (Global Positioning System).

The first thing that comes to our mind when we talk about technology is a “Computer”. The students explained the role of Mathematics in computers which are built from collections of switches. These switches can be either ON (1) or OFF (0). Along with the explanation of the concept of bits and bytes, a student also involved the visitors in a number card activity wherein he showed how a binary number is formed with digits 1 and 0.

Mathematics in architecture was one of the fascinating corners in the Mathematics exhibition. The topic encompassed mathematical facts related to the design and stability of structures. The projects touched various areas of architecture in general. Some of these projects emphasized how Mathematics is involved in stability of huge structures: domes, spirals and minarets all over the world. The project on “Burj Khalifa” compelled the visitors to stop at this corner and enquire its mathematical details.

Using simple mathematical terms like measurements, area, perimeter, shapes and proportion; the students very beautifully explained the importance of Mathematics during the planning stage: detailing about blue prints, floor plans and architectural models. The students highlighted the modern day architectural apps like V-ray, Sweet home 3D and others which in addition to providing a realistic view also reduce the manual effort.

The models and charts explaining the stability of bridges using “truss” structures was another eye catching project in the exhibition.

The students explained the technological advancements which led to an ease in banking transactions. Counting machines, ATMs, cards, cheques, online transactions and security were the topics covered under the umbrella of “banking”.

Another exhibit displayed the application of Mathematics in GPS. The process of trilateration, using satellites and signals to locate the position, was presented effectively by students through simple explanation with the help of a model and a chart.

At the “Mathematics in Astronomy” corner, use of mathematics in counting entities, the calculation of distance of an object in the sky, use of statistics in interpreting the data collected by devices were highlighted. The students also talked on how APOLLO 11 used Mathematics to land two men on moon and bring them back safely to the earth.

The students were extremely enthusiastic and confident to explain their research work. At times, the parents also shared their information with respect to the topic explained by the students. Throughout the exhibition visitors’ interest and interaction was visible. A huge number of positive feedbacks made it a successful exhibition.