Civil Engineer: How to Incorporate Diff. Eq. in Career

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relevance and application of differential equations in the field of civil engineering. Participants share their experiences and perspectives on how these mathematical concepts are utilized in practice, touching on both theoretical and practical aspects of engineering problems.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants mention that differential equations are essential for solving specific engineering problems, such as deflection of beams, particularly in complex scenarios involving long beams.
  • One participant shares their extensive experience with calculus and differential equations, noting that despite the theoretical importance, they have rarely used these concepts in their 40-year career in civil engineering.
  • Another viewpoint suggests that the primary value of learning differential equations lies in developing a mathematical mindset for modeling problems, rather than direct application in everyday engineering tasks.
  • Concerns are raised about the practical use of differential equations in civil engineering, with some suggesting that engineers often rely on the mathematics they are familiar with and may consult mathematicians for complex problems.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of opinions regarding the utility of differential equations in civil engineering. While some emphasize their importance for specific applications, others argue that their everyday use may be limited, indicating a lack of consensus on their practical relevance.

Contextual Notes

There are varying assumptions about the frequency and context in which differential equations are applied in civil engineering, as well as differing views on the necessity of mastering these concepts for professional success.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to civil engineering students, educators in mathematics and engineering, and professionals considering the role of advanced mathematics in engineering practice.

Miagi
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Im taking these the high math classes right now. Just want to know, how will I be incorporating these Differential Equations in my profession as a civil engineer?
 
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Miagi said:
Im taking these the high math classes right now. Just want to know, how will I be incorporating these Differential Equations in my profession as a civil engineer?

Traffic Flow Modeling, Navier-Stokes Equations, etc...
 
hey you need differential equations for solving deflection of beams problems,especially very long beam problems cannot be solved without the knowledge of differential equations.(partial differential equations in particular)
 
Say, I took 4 years of calculus, including differential equations, partial differential equations, theory of elasticity, theory of plates and shells, etc. In those latter 2 courses, the prof used to write partial differential equations that filled up 3 blackboards end to end. One such problem invoved calculating the stress concentration factor at a hole in the center of a plate; after 3 blackboards filled of equations, the answer for that factor was K = 3. So I memorized it. Now in 40 years worth of civil/structural engineering, I have used calculus and diffy Q maybe one or 2 times in my career. The bottom line is that while it is very important to take these calculus courses to get an understanding of what is going on, don't feel like you'll be using them day to day in the Civil Engineering field. Just get the basics down.
 
Perhaps the test should not be how useful this will be (On the whole, it won't be) ,but whether it is successful in developing in you a way of thinking about appropriate mathematical modelling. There's usually more than one way to solve an engineering problem. In my experience, engineers use the maths they know, and know the maths they use. Even in research situations, if you did have to develop and solve a differential equation, you might be wise to consult a mathematician, especially if it is the case (as it often is in Civil Engineering) that the consequences of failure are risk to life and property.
 

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