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Big and Small Numbers in Biology

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In estimation questions don't be afraid to have a go with a guess at some numbers in the problem and then to refine your estimate after checking it makes some sort of sense.

Although there is no 'right' answer to an estimation, there are good or bad estimations and sensible or over-detailed calculations.

Think how you might make your estimation a good one, and think how it makes sense to ignore certain complexities in the calculation.

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A Question of Scale

Use your skill and knowledge to place various scientific lengths in order of size. Can you judge the length of objects with sizes ranging from 1 Angstrom to 1 million km with no wrong attempts?

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The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice.

NRICH is part of the family of activities in the Millennium Mathematics Project.

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