Wednesday, January 2, 2008

Convenient Calculator


Fermi Questions require a lot of math to solve and check, so a calculator that is always handy is convenient for quick calculation. After you estimate (no calculators allowed!) a solution for the question, you can use a calculator to check your work. I have my browser open when I write this blog, so I always have a convenient tool close at hand; my Google search box. All you have to do is enter the problem (e.g. 8365/467). The answer will be at the top of your search results. If you have the Google Toolbar installed (click here for download) you can set the search box to suggest (click "settings", select "search box settings", then click the check box to "suggest popular searches") If you enter your math problem followed by "="
(e.g. "8365/467="). A drop down window will appear stating the solution (see image above). I find this calculator to be very useful when I don't have a hand held calculator handy.

No comments: