Date Presented

Spring 5-3-2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Department

Mathematics

First Advisor

Dr. Thomasey

Second Advisor

Dr. Thapa

Third Advisor

Dr. Cowden

Abstract

This research investigates the native Virginia orchid, Cyprepedium pubescens, or the large yellow lady-slipper. Researchers at Lynchburg College, located in central Virginia, collected orchid activity data over the span of nine years from 2006-2014. This data included the following information: when the first sprout appeared, the number of leaves, the number of flowers, and the number of flowers per each plant. Using collected data about nine orchids on the campus of Lynchburg College as a basis, we wanted create a model that would predict when we might see flowering on a yearly basis. Flowering is important because researchers are investigating the pollination of these flowers, and pollination happens when the flowers are in full bloom.

Using a multiple linear regression, we created a model which used the number of flowers as the dependent variable, and the independent variables of: temperature, yearly rainfall, average humidity, and the number of days since the last freeze. It was found that the most significant factors in this model are the number of days since the last freeze, rainfall, and temperature. The model provided insight towards the insignificant role that humidity played in predictive measures.

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