The mathematics of planet earth
An engaging talk showing how A-level mathematics helps scientists model natural phenomena, predict global events, and tackle real-world challenges from earthquakes to climate change.
Talk: No | Workshop: No | Course: No | Audience: High School, Sixthform, College, Undergraduate,
What do earthquakes, climate change, ocean waves, and the shape of the Earth all have in common? Mathematics. In this talk, we’ll explore how maths is used to understand and predict real-world processes happening all around us — from the movement of tectonic plates to the spread of wildfires and the patterns in weather systems. You’ll see how topics from A-level maths such as functions, graphs, trigonometry, calculus, modelling, and statistics can be applied to some of the biggest challenges facing our planet. Through real examples, visual demonstrations, and simple models, we’ll uncover how mathematicians and scientists turn data into insight — helping us measure risk, make predictions, and make better decisions for the future.