The use of numerical methods for the analysis, simulation, and design of engineering processes and systems has
been increasing at a rapid rate in recent years. The availability of cheap high-speed computing power makes the
numerical solution of even complex engineering problems economically feasible. In the face of ever increasing demands
on engineering profession to perform better, the students who learn numerical methods in preparing to face the
challenges of 21st century should learn not only the theory behind the methods, but also acquire skills to implement
the methods for computer solution. In addition, the students should be aware of the many commercial software systems
available and their use in the solution of engineering problems. Although a student may not learn all the numerical
methods described in this book and use all the software systems available in any one course, he or she should be
in a position to intelligently select and use suitable numerical methods and software systems as the need arises
in practice.
The use of numerical methods in engineering can be considered partly science and partly art. Thus, a cookbook-type
procedure will not be effective in learning the methods. A student should solve a problem using different approaches
and a variety of software systems and experiment with the various parameters of the problem. The different results
obtained through this process will form an experience base for selecting a suitable method and interpreting the
results for a new problem. It is always desirable to compare and verify the results with other available solutions
based on engineering judgment and intuition.
This book is intended for courses on numerical methods at the junior and senior level as well as at the beginning
graduate level. The book also serves as a reference for numerical methods in engineering. Fortran and C programs,
along with illustrative examples, are given in each chapter to implement many of the numerical methods discussed
in that chapter. The use of commercial numerical softwares--MATLAB, MAPLE and MATHCAD--in the solution of practical
problems is demonstrated in every chapter. Even when a program from a software package is used, we need to understand
the basic principles, purpose, and limitations of the program. Often, in many engineering applications, an available
standard program cannot be used directly; we need to adapt and modify it. This invariably requires a sound knowledge
of the numerical method as well as some computational experience with the method. The book is aimed at presenting
numerical methods along with their practical applications in a manner that helps students achieve the goals just
outlined.
Organization
Applied Numerical Methods for Engineers is organized into 13 chapters and 6 appendices. Chapter 1 presents
an overview of numerical methods, iterative- processes, numerical errors, software available for numerical methods,
programming languages, and the various aspects of computer program development. The methods of solving nonlinear
equations are given in Chapter 2. The solution of sets of linear algebraic equations is presented in Chapter 3.
Both direct and iterative methods are considered. The matrix eigenvalue problem is the topic of Chapter 4. Chapter
5 deals with the methods of curve fitting and interpolation. The probabilistic and statistical methods are considered
in Chapter 6. The numerical differentiation and numerical integration are the topics of Chapters 7 and 8, respectively.
The numerical solution of ordinary differential equations is considered in Chapters 9 and 10. While Chapter 9 presents
the methods of solving initial-value problems, Chapter 10 deals with the solution of boundary-value problems. The
numerical solution of partial differential equations is considered in Chapter 11. The optimization and the finite-element
methods are presented in Chapters 12 and 13, respectively. Appendices A and B provide the basics of Fortran and
C languages while Appendices C, D, and E summarize the basics of MAPLE, MATLAB, and MATHCAD, respectively. A review
of matrix algebra is given in Appendix F. Finally, Appendix G presents tables of statistical distributions.
The material of the book provides flexible options for different types of numerical methods courses. A junior
and senior level course may cover the basic techniques of Chapters 1, 2, 3, and 5 to 9. A first-level graduate
course can cover Chapters 4, 10, 11, 12, and 13 as well. The prerequisites for using the text are elementary calculus,
basic concepts of linear algebra, and an introduction to differential equations.
Each topic for Applied Numerical Methods for Engineers is self-contained. In derivations and developments,
steps needed for continuity of understanding have been included to aid the reader at the introductory level. Representative
engineering applications are given at the beginning of each chapter so that the reader can appreciate the practical
use and application of the numerical methods presented in that chapter. Many sample problems are solved by using
several methods, and the results are compared, discussed, and general conclusions are drawn. Most of the algorithms
described in the book are implemented in the form of Fortran and C codes and are made available at the Web site
of the book. The use of different commercial software systems, as well as the programs available at the Web site
of the book, is illustrated in each chapter.
Features
The specific features of the book include
A variety of engineering applications at the beginning of each chapter to illustrate the practicality of the
methods considered in that chapter.
The presentation of the material in a simple and user-friendly form. Illustrative examples follow the presentation
of the topics.
A discussion of convergence rate, error, relative performance, and recommendations for the numerical methods.
Review questions to help students in reviewing and testing their understanding of the text material. These
include multiple choice questions, questions with brief answers, true-false questions, questions involving matching
of related descriptions, and fill-in-the-blank type questions. Answers to review questions can be found at the
Web site of the book.
A summary of important algorithms in the instructor's manual.
Over 700 problems, with solutions in the instructor's manual.
The inclusion of several open ended, project type and design problems at the end of chapters.
Fortran and C programs for many of the methods presented in the book can be found at the Web site of the book.
The inclusion of examples and problems based on the use of MATLAB, MAPLE, and MATHCAD in every chapter.
References to lead the reader to specialized and advanced literature.
Brief biographical information and photographs of scientists and mathematicians who contributed to the development
of numerical methods, found at the Web site of the book.
Web site of the book
The Fortran and C programs used in the book, answers to problems, solutions to review questions, and brief biographical
information of scientists can be found at the web site of the book: http://www.prenhall.com/rao. Note that
the programs and techniques presented in the book and at the web site are intended for use by students in learning
the material. Although the material has been tested, no warranty is implied as to their accuracy.
Summary
This comprehensive book includes over 800 problems including open ended, project type and design problems.
Chapter topics include
Introduction to Numerical Methods
Solution of Nonlinear Equations
Simultaneous Linear Algebraic Equations
Solution of Matrix Eigenvalue Problem
Curve Fitting and Interpolation
Statistical Methods
Numerical Differentiation
Numerical Integration
Numerical Solution of Ordinary Differential Equations: Initial Value Problems
Numerical Solution of Ordinary Differential Equations: Boundary Value Problems
Numerical Solution of Partial Differential Equations Numerical Methods of Optimization
Finite Element Method.
This book is intended as a reference for numerical methods in engineering.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction to Numerical Methods.
2. Solution of Nonlinear Equations.
3. Simultaneous Linear Algebraic Equations.
4. Solution of Matrix Eigenvalue Problem.
5. Curve Fitting and Interpolation.
6. Statistical Methods.
7. Numerical Differentiation.
8. Numerical Integration.
9. Numerical Solution of Ordinary Differential Equations: Initial Value Problems.
10. Numerical Solution of Ordinary Differential Equations: Boundary Value Problems.
11. Numerical Solution of Partial Differential Equations.
12. Numerical Methods of Optimization.
13. Finite Element Method.
Appendix A: Basics of Fortran 90.
Appendix B: Basics of C Language.
Appendix C: Basics of MAPLE.
Appendix D: Basics of MATLAB.
Appendix E: Basics of MathCAD.
Appendix F: Review of Matrix Algebra.
Appendix G: Statistical Tables.