Problem Solving Assignment: Counting to a Million (Maths)

This assignment addresses the problem of calculating the time required to count to one million. The solution begins by establishing a counting rate and utilizes the unitary method to determine the time needed to count a single number. The calculation then extends to find the total time required to count to one million, converting seconds into minutes and hours. The solution highlights the application of the unitary method as a fundamental mathematical concept. The student reflects on the problem-solving process, emphasizing the impact of technological advancements in computing and the contrast between traditional counting methods and modern computational speeds. References to relevant mathematical resources are also included. The assignment showcases the problem-solving journey, the mathematics involved, the calculations, and a personal reflection on the process.

Running head: Problem Solving/ Maths
Problem Solving/ Maths
Name of the Student
Name of the University

2Problem Solving/ Maths
Question:
How long would it take you to count to I million? (In ones!)?
Solution:
One million is in figures equal to 1000000. Assuming one can count 180 numbers per minute
that is 3 numbers per second.
Thus,
Number of numbers that can be counted per 60 seconds = 180
Number of numbers that can be counted per 1 second = 180/60 =3 numbers.
Now,
Time taken to count 3 numbers = 1 second.
Time taken to count 1 number = 1/ 3 seconds.
Time taken to count 1000000 numbers = 1
3 ×1000000=333333.34 secs .
Now 60 secs = 1 minute.
So, 1 sec= (1/60) min
And, 333333.34 sec = ( 1
60 × 333333.34) = 5555.56 minutes.
But 60 min = 1 hour
So, 5555.56 min = 5555.56
60 =¿ 92.60 hours.
Thus it is reasonable for someone counting at a constant rate of 3 numbers per second to
complete counting upto 1 million in approximately 92 and a half hour.

3Problem Solving/ Maths
The mathematical concepts used mainly in this solving this problem is the unitary method
and a few reasonable assumptions about counting. Unitary method is a simple and one of the
building blocks of counting used in mathematics. This method uses the simple principle of
finding out how much a single unit of a quantity is equivalent to and then multiplies any
number of units with the equivalent value of a single unit.
The participation in this task clarified how to approach a problem and then find the
proper tools to solve it. Problem solving happens when one has correctly identified the
problem and then solve it part by part after knowing which tools to use. In this case the total
time required and the basic unitary method.
Solving this problem taught me how much advanced we are technologically now
because of great computing powers. The counting process which would have took
approximately 90 hours to count is done now in the split of a second by normal computers.
This problem put this advancement of computing powers into perspective by counting in the
usual traditional methods.

4Problem Solving/ Maths
References:
Cockcroft, W.H., 1982. Mathematics counts. London: HM Stationery Office.
Nunes, T., Carraher, T.N., Schliemann, A.D. and Carraher, D.W., 1993. Street mathematics
and school mathematics. Cambridge University Press.
Schoenfeld, A.H., 2014. Mathematical problem solving. Elsevier.
Treffinger, D.J., Isaksen, S.G. and Stead-Dorval, K.B., 2005. Creative problem solving: An
introduction. Prufrock Press Inc..