Math
Scientists Say: Variable
A variable is something that can be changed — such as a value in math, or a factor in an experiment.
Math
More Stories in Math
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PhysicsWhy some icicles become scallops not spikes
The newfound — and at times quirky — shapes reflect the density of water surrounding submerged ice.
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MathScientists Say: Geometry
Geometry is math that allows people to measure, analyze and compare figures in space.
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LifeFrom icebergs to smoke, forecasting where dangers will drift
Smoke drifts. Fish eggs float downstream. Where such drifting things end up may seem a mystery. But research can predict where they’ll end up.
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AnimalsEndangered or just rare? Statistics give meaning to the head counts
Whether studying tiny birds or massive whales, researchers collect a lot of data. The field of statistics helps them make sense of those data.
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MathScientists Say: Pi
Pi is the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. But some mathematicians say life would be easier if we used a different ratio instead.
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MathExplainer: What is statistics?
Scientists use statistics to design studies, analyze data and evaluate uncertainty. You’ll find it in biology, climate change, medicine and more.
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MathBetter data lead to better forecasts
Scientists turn to mathematical models to make good predictions. But if they don’t put good data into those models, they won’t get reliable forecasts. So good data are key.
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MathBeyond crystal balls: How to make good forecasts
Science shows mounds of data and some math are key to predicting future events.
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MathScientists Say: Outlier
Data points often fall within a normal range. When one data point sticks out a lot, it might be an outlier.