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Rated MPG for Confusion

Using Gas Mileage to Learn Graphing and Data Analysis Skills

By Claudia Bode, Alan Gleue, Carolyn Pearson

Rated MPG for Confusion


 

Abstract

This case study follows a family’s dilemma about how to save money on gasoline. Should they keep their SUV and trade in their Corolla for a hybrid sedan? Going from 28 (Corolla) to 48 (Hybrid) miles per gallon (MPG) should really save money on gas. That’s a change of 20 MPG! Or, should they keep their Corolla and trade in their SUV for a minivan? The SUV gets about 13 MPG while the Minivan gets 17 MPG. Students learn how to analyze fuel efficiency in terms of “gallons per miles” driven instead of miles per gallon, and gain graphing and data analysis skills. An extension activity also relates fuel efficiency to greenhouse gas emissions. The case was developed for use in a high school general science course. It could be adapted for use in introductory physics, chemistry, algebra, or environmental science courses at the high school or college level.

   

Date Posted

08/26/2009

Overview

Objectives

  • Practice dimensional analysis and mathematical calculations.
  • Analyze data.
  • Create graphs using graphing software programs.
  • Practice interpreting inverse or in-direct graphs and direct or linear graphs.

Keywords

Fuel efficiency; fuel economy; gasoline; gas emissions; gas mileage; graphs; graphing; graphing software; data analysis; dimensional analysis

  

Subject Headings

Chemistry (General)
Environmental Science
Mathematics
Physics
Science (General)

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

High school, Undergraduate lower division

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Directed

 

 

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