Outline of Assignments to 
Learn Basic Environmental Math

Assignment 1:  Basic Math Terms and Rules

When to multiply first and when to add first; Using parentheses and other equation calculation helpers; Multiplying and dividing fractions; unit conversions; Recording measurements accurately.  

1½ - 2 hours

Assignment 2: Significant Figures and Rounding

Counting and placement of significant figures; Rounding up and rounding down; Rounding rules when adding and subtracting; Rounding rules when multiplying and dividing; Rounding rules combined; Working with exact numbers.

2¼-3 hours 

Assignment 3: Density

Effects of density on calculations; Determining density, and density ratio/specific gravity.

½ hour

Assignment 4: Concentrations and Loadings

Calculating loadings; Simple averaging; Flow weighted averaging; Weekly averages; Monthly averages.

2¼-3 hours 

Assignment 5: Removal Rates and Treatment Efficiencies

Identifying removal rates; Calculating removal efficiencies; Determining unit and treatment plant removal efficiencies.

½ -¾ hour

Assignment 6: Proportions and Ratios

Determining rates; Setting up proportions based on ratios; Solving for unknowns using proportions.

½-¾ hour

Assignment 7: Logarithms 

Using logarithms to determine  coliform concentrations; Using logarithms to determine [H+] concentrations.

½ hour

Assignment 8: Review It!

A mixed bag of exercises from all the previous assignments to ensure you are ready for the test.

1-1½ hours

Assignment 9: Test It! (if applicable or for fun)

The test.

1 hour

Assignment 10: Complete it! 

Course completion and certificate specifications.

¼ hour