MSSM Snow Math

Recently, students in Dr. Klei's Before Calculus BC class went outside to get a bigger perspective on Conic Sections. When planes intersect right circular cones at different relative angles, the resultant curves are called conic sections. To experience the mathematics behind these curves firsthand, both graphical and analytical approaches were used to highlight large ellipses, hyperbolas, and parabolas in the snow. One class generated an ellipse whose major axis measured 30 yards across. The other class generated an ellipse, hyperbola, and parabola of related eccentricities from a common directrix and focal point.

Drone was provided and piloted by Mitch Bartlett.