[5] Working with Numbers

Back to Quantitative Problem Solving in Natural Resources

Working with Numbers

Peter L. Moore

This chapter is part of: Moore P. 2018. Quantitative Problem Solving in Natural Resources

Description
Among the most fundamental operations we do with quantities is arithmetic. We can encounter the need for arithmetic in any phase of problem solving, from making a ballpark estimate in the Understand phase to computing and double-checking a final result in the Execute and Check phases. Once we have a solid grasp of the operations that are allowable and those that aren’t – for example, is it OK to add or subtract quantities expressed in different units or on different scales? – we may get down to business with performing basic operations.

Description

Among the most fundamental operations we do with quantities is arithmetic. We can encounter the need for arithmetic in any phase of problem solving, from making a ballpark estimate in the Understand phase to computing and double-checking a final result in the Execute and Check phases. Once we have a solid grasp of the operations that are allowable and those that aren’t – for example, is it OK to add or subtract quantities expressed in different units or on different scales? – we may get down to business with performing basic operations.

Details

Published	Published By	Pages
Oct. 5, 2018	Iowa State University Digital Press	11