O uso de modelos matemáticos na engenharia para discussão de questões sociocientíficas: variáveis sociais e humanas

Abstract: The article has as object of study the Gaussian model of dispersion of atmospheric pollutants, usually practiced in the teaching of Engineering. In addition to the techniques, we seek to discuss socio-scientific issues, when considering the social and human variables that constitute such a model, with the aim of leading the student to a critical view in the identification and resolution of problems. This study makes use of mathematical, physical, and chemical concepts, being an interdisciplinary work among the basic sciences. The model in question equates technical variables and thereby provides future professionals with the possibility to simulate the behavior of the dispersion cloud according to the alteration of any one of these variables. Decisions can be made based on changes in the scenario and, therefore, Engineering fulfills its role of solving problems, in this case of the industry that in its productive / technological way causes an environmental problem for society. Therefore, it is concluded that it is necessary to unveil the contemporary variables that make up this model when discussing the social implications of technoscience that are interwoven in its resolution. Working from this perspective is to exploit the potential of mathematics in engineering education to the full. Keywords: Mathematics. Engineering. Socioscientific Issues. Contemporary variables.