Spreadsheet Model of COVID-19 Transmission: Evaporation and Dispersion of Respiratory Droplets

A spreadsheet model of the projectile motion, evaporation and dispersion of respiratory droplets is presented to introduce students to mathematical modeling, computer simulations and important aspects of the science behind the COVID-19 pandemic. The model is simple enough to be implemented by undergraduate biology and health science students, and enables students (and health professionals) to explore the role of droplet size, proximity and environmental conditions on SARS-CoV-2 transmission. It is hoped that this model will help students to better understand the science behind the current pandemic, the practices implemented to mitigate outbreaks, and the seasonality of outbreaks.