Author: Simoson, Andrew J.

Source: The College Mathematics Journal, Volume 40, Number 4, September 2009 , pp. 263-274(12)

Publisher: Mathematical Association of America

Abstract:

For a given initial speed of water from a spigot or jet, what angle of the jet will maximize the visual impact of the water spray in the fountain? This paper focuses on fountains whose spigots are arranged in circular fashion, and couches the measurement of the visual impact in terms of the surface area and the volume under the fountain's natural suggested surface (of the object of revolution of any of the streams of water about the central axis of the fountain). Pappus' two theorems involving the centroid of an arc and of an area are used as keys to answer the question. The critical angle is in general other than 60 degrees.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4169/193113409X458714

Publication date: 2009-09-01

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• The College Mathematics Journal is designed to enhance classroom learning and stimulate thinking regarding undergraduate mathematics. CMJ publishes articles, short Classroom Capsules, problems, solutions, media reviews and other pieces. All are aimed at the college mathematics curriculum with emphasis on topics taught in the first two years.
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