What are the practical applications of differential geometry?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the practical applications of differential geometry, particularly in various job sectors and its relevance outside of theoretical contexts. Participants explore its utility in fields such as engineering, gaming, and education.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the applicability of differential geometry outside of mathematics and physics, suggesting that many engineers do not actively use advanced mathematics in their work.
  • Another participant highlights the importance of differential geometry in three-dimensional modeling for physical systems, particularly in the context of gaming technology like the Havok physics engine.
  • It is noted that while some applications exist, they may be limited to niche markets, and end-users often do not require deep knowledge of the underlying mathematics.
  • There is a suggestion that teaching differential geometry could be seen as a practical application, though this is not universally agreed upon.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relevance and application of differential geometry in practical settings. Some believe it has limited use outside specialized fields, while others argue for its importance in specific applications like gaming and modeling.

Contextual Notes

Participants' claims about the use of mathematics in engineering and the necessity of differential geometry in various jobs are based on personal experiences and anecdotal evidence, which may not represent broader trends.

mathmari
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Hey! :o

In what jobs is differential geometry applied and needed?
 
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Well, I'm not sure I can fully answer your question. But here is a link to the applications page for differential geometry on the wiki. Then you could figure out which jobs apply the academic fields there mentioned.
 
I am not sure, but I would not be surprised if DG is not used anywhere outside of math and physics. Even something as basic calculus is not used by engineers on problems they work with. It is true that there are problems from engineering that need calculus to solve them, but engineers do not need to do it. It has either been solved by previous engineers, who written it down in a manual, or with today's technology it is stored or solved through a computer. I asked engineers who do real engineering work and they all told me they do not really require math. Therefore, if I have to guess I would say that DG is the same.
 
If you want to improve on three-dimensional modelling of physical systems (such as that used by the Havok physics engine in many popular current video games), differential geometry is going to be *very* useful. As with other applications, it's a niche market. This is the way of the modern world, very few skills have applications to all walks of life.

Of course, once created, such an application can often be used by the end-user with little or no training in the skills used to make it (by analogy, one does not need to be a machinist or automotive engineer in order to drive a car).

Many scientific and mathematical concepts are like this: only truly useful (in the sense of getting paid for knowing them) in small specialized settings. Of course, teaching others being the "obvious" application.
 

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