Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Date
5-30-2015
Abstract
Many religions have deep roots in the rhythms of the moon. And ever since at least the fifth century BC man has known that the moon repeats itself every n = 19 years. Is this integer valuen the best of all choices?Easter follows such a calendar. We briefly show that 19 is second best. And then we run time backwards, and give a rationale as to why a certain species of cicada has a life cycle of 17 years. The answer involves the moon, the Farey series, and Kepler’s laws of motion.
Recommended Citation
Simoson, Andrew, "The Best Religious Calendar" (2015). ACMS Conference Proceedings 2015. 19.
https://pillars.taylor.edu/acms-2015/19
Included in
Applied Mathematics Commons, Computer Sciences Commons, Higher Education Commons, History of Science, Technology, and Medicine Commons, Mathematics Commons, Science and Mathematics Education Commons, Teacher Education and Professional Development Commons