Exploring Distance | wild.maths.org

We usually measure distance as the crow flies. These problems explore the mathematics that emerges when we express distance in different ways, using ideas from taxi-cab geometry.

How far?

How do you measure the distance between two points? A straight line? The shortest route by road? The time it takes to travel? Find out different ways of measuring distance and the mathematical idea of a metric.

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Getting Round the City

To get around a city, we can't walk as the crow flies, but instead we have to walk up, down and across the blocks. What can you discover about taxi-cab geometry?

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Find the Robber

A robber is hiding at a crossroads in a modern city, where the roads are all at right angles and equally spaced.
Can you help the police to find him?

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Find the Metagiff

In a three dimensional city on a distant planet, the metagiff has escaped from the zoo! Can you help the zookeeper locate the metagiff?

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Dotty Grids Resources

Here are some resources to help you explore dotty grids, including some printable grids and an interactive environment.