Activity Overview
In "Burn Rate," the FBI is investigating a series of mail bombs. Charlie is called in to determine if any of the targets are related. By mathematically analyzing the dispersion of bomb fragments, an estimate of the initial shape of the charge may be determined. One of the initial steps is to calculate the equations of the normal lines to possible bomb surfaces.
Students will calculate the equations of normal lines to points on a graph.
Before the Activity
Download the attached PDF and look over the Teacher Page.
During the Activity
Discuss the materials from the Student Page with your class.
After the Activity
Encourage students to explore web sites and questions from the Extensions Page.