Computer Generated Simulation of the Migration Path of Ancient Native Americans into North America
CSEF · 2009 Mathematics & Software Honorable_mention Award
Overview
Objectives/Goals The migration path of the ancient Native Americans has long been a much sought for, yet abstract concept. The present method of determining the ancient Native Americans# migration route into North America relies heavily upon the discoveries of fossils and other ancient artifacts that scientists can use to locate the assumed settlements of ancient Native American tribes. The object of this project is to produce a realistic computer simulation of the migration path of the ancient Native Americans. Methods/Materials The migration path is simulated using inputted data, which are the factors of living conditions, such as land formations and climate, which must have played a significant role in the migration of ancient Native Americans. The inputted data are then translated in the program into configurable values which are used to set the parameters of the harshness of living conditions. The migration is realistically portrayed, significantly affected by the migration hindrances (mountain ranges, etc), which further enhances the accuracy of the simulated migration path. Results The accuracy of the resulting simulated migration path was determined by comparing the computer generated migration path with the migration path determined by professional researchers using paleontological and archaeological information. Conclusions/Discussion The simulation proved highly compatible, and it could ultimately become a major source of data and reference for researchers in the future.
Summary statement
By using simple living condition factors (such as land formations and climate), the migration path of the ancient Native Americans can be determined by a computer generated simulation.
Help received
Paleontological map used to verfiy simulation provided by Dr. David Glenn Smith from University of California Davis.
Awards (1)
- Honorable Mention
Competition history
- CSEF 2009
Resources
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