Solar Radiation and the UV index: An application of Numerical Integration, Trigonometric functions, Online Education and the Modelling Process

Abstract

A short series of practical classroom mathematics activities employing the use of a large and publicly accessible scientific data set are presented for use by students in years 9 and 10. The activities introduce and build understanding of integral calculus and trigonometric functions through the presentation of practical problem solving that focuses on Public Health and developing a personal understanding of solar ultraviolet radiation and the UV Index. The classroom activities are presented using an approach that encourages self-discovery of mathematical concepts by application of mathematical modelling. These activities also develop critical thinking skills through application of data mining, data processing and presentation. They also emphasize the importance of drawing valid conclusions, concepts important to scientific research, statistics and epidemiology.