Applications and Modelling

This lesson covers the application of mechanics to real-world situations and the modelling assumptions used, as required by the Edexcel 9MA0 A-Level Mathematics specification. You need to understand how to set up a mathematical model, interpret results, and evaluate the model's validity.

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The Modelling Cycle

Mechanics problems involve modelling real situations mathematically. The modelling cycle has four stages:

1. Specify the problem — identify what needs to be found.
2. Set up the model — make simplifying assumptions, define variables, draw diagrams, write equations.
3. Solve the model — use mathematics to solve the equations.
4. Interpret and validate — compare the results with reality. If the model is inadequate, refine the assumptions and repeat.

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Common Modelling Assumptions