Available online
Description
This programme deals with the problem of finding an expansion for the term (a+b)n. The idea of choice is introduced and illustrated by Norman Gowar finding a route through Edinburgh. The grid produ...ced is used to explain the idea of Pascal's Triangle.
This programme deals with the problem of finding an expansion for the term (a+b)n. The idea of choice is introduced and illustrated by Norman Gowar finding a route through Edinburgh. The grid produ...ced is used to explain the idea of Pascal's Triangle.
| Module code and title: | M101, Mathematics: a foundation course |
|---|---|
| Item code: | M101; 02 |
| Recording date: | 09-06-1976 |
| First transmission date: | 09-02-1978 |
| Published: | 1978 |
| Rights Statement: | |
| Restrictions on use: | |
| Duration: | 00:24:55 |
| + Show more... | |
| Producer: | Jack Koumi |
| Contributors: | Norman Gowar; John Mason |
| Publisher: | BBC Open University |
| Keyword(s): | Binominal Theory; Pascal's Triangle; Scott monument |
| Footage description: | Norman Gowar introduces the programme, setting the task: of finding an expansion for the term (a+b)b. John Mason explains what this term really means and with a series of equations shows how it can be understood. As a further example he uses cubes and squares to describe the process involved. John Mason demonstrates how the resolution of(a+b) (a+b) can be seen as a number of possible choices of a's and b's. So also (a+b)b can be resolved by choosing one letter from each bracket in all possible ways. Norman Gowar is then seen on location in Edinburgh demonstrating, by walking to the Scott monument how the number of ways to a point, or a number of choices, can be estimated. John Mason then links this back to the choices to be made in resolving (a+b)b Norman Gowar demonstrates with the aid of a grid, how the number of possible choices can be worked out. John Mason shows how this grid provides solutions for the coefficients in the term (a+b)b In general this grid is known as Pascal's triangle. Norman Govar explains how symbols can be used to describe the positions of points on the triangle and how these can be used to generate a formula which will provide an answer for any triangle. Credits |
| Master spool number: | 6HT/72242 |
| Production number: | 00525_4239 |
| Videofinder number: | 2426 |
| Available to public: | no |
