The use of math in engineering is a much-debated topic among students and people alike. Known to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, math is often used to design new solutions and components while also analyzing real-life situations for testing and learning purposes.1
As a subject, math has been used across centuries, both in different areas of engineering as well as research. The principles of linear algebra are used in the field of electrical engineering, while geometry also finds its application in the fields of civil and mechanical engineering. If you’re someone who enjoys math at the high school level and want to pursue a career in engineering, you should be aware of its use in your daily life.
This article dives deep into the different applications of math, focusing on its use across different areas of engineering.
- Civil Engineering
Civil engineers often use math-related concepts derived from chemistry.
Chemistry equations are used for measuring the strength of materials involved in construction.
They also use trigonometry to survey different buildings and structures. In addition to this, the application of math in engineering also extends to finance.
Civil engineers and their teams often use basic math formulas during the planning phase. These formulas are typically used for budgeting, helping people identify the cost of a project.
- Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering is another popular domain that uses math concepts in day-to-day life. Mechanical engineers often use math and physics formulas to determine the amount of energy and force produced by a machine. In addition, they also sometimes use algebra for designing suspension systems and algorithms, among others.
- Computer Engineering
Math is used extensively in computing. This is one domain that utilizes math to perform day-to-day functions—right from the hardware design to the software tools. People willing to pursue a career in computer science use discrete math to test different algorithms and hypotheses. Moreover, relational databases and logic gates often use concepts of Boolean algebra to produce significant results.
Studying math in high school helps you understand the application of math in computing. You also get to learn logical thinking alongside the basics of software programming.
- Interior Designing
Interior designers apply math to calculate area and volume to measure the proper layout for your room or hall. Math concepts are also used for determining the best use of space, alongside the storage and placement of different objects. Interior designers also use math to ensure their design complies with the building regulations.2 They usually employ geometry and other related concepts to create better-looking designs.
- Automobile Engineering
The automobile industry is another field where engineers often use math formulas and equations. A lot of mathematical concepts and formulas are used while building an automobile.
Automobile engineering uses geometry to calculate the relationship between tires and their revolutions per minute(RPM). It is also useful for projecting quarter-mile and top-end speeds, among other things. Automobile engineers need to know the basic concepts of math, apart from having a working knowledge of physics and chemistry.3
- Video Games
The gaming industry is another beneficiary of the immense potential of math. It is no wonder that a lot of games are based on basic math concepts taught during school.
Game developers use the likes of game theory, geometry, and vectors to create different characters, scenarios, and objects within the game. Based on several real-world concepts taught at school, game designing has been considered one of the most interesting applications of math in the last few decades.4
Math is a boon for any engineer.5 Having even a basic understanding of the subject helps you develop solutions that can be used by people across the world. For those interested in pursuing a career in science, design, or even research, math presents a great opportunity to do so.
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References
1. Math-oriented critical thinking skills in engineering. (n.d.). IEEE Xplore. Retrieved November 8, 2022, from http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/5490579/
2. 22 Examples of Mathematics in Everyday Life. (n.d.). StudiousGuy. Retrieved November 6, 2022, from https://studiousguy.com/examples-of-mathematics/
3. Los Santos, H.D. (2007, December 1). Common Automotive Mathematic Equations. MotorTrend. Retrieved November 8, 2022, from https://www.motortrend.com/how-to/ccrp-0312-car-craft-math/
4. Writer, S. (2015, August 4). How Is Math Used in Engineering? Retrieved November 6, 2022, from https://www.reference.com/world-view/math-used-engineering-4d0741bd7b1afacd
5. Admin. (2020, February 26). Why Mathematics Is Compulsory For Engineering? Importance of Mathematics in Engineering. JB Institute of Technology. Retrieved November 8, 2022, from https://www.jbitdoon.com/blog/why-mathematics-is-compulsory-for-engineering-importance-of-mathematics-in-engineering/
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