Introduction to Mathematics

Abstract

This chapter presents mathematical concepts and techniques that are fundamental for the study of problems in mechanical engineering. Precisely formulating a mathematical model of the problem at hand, using appropriate methods and techniques to solve the mathematical problem, and, finally, interpreting the solution to the real life problem are some of the important components of the process of solving problems in any engineering field. The topics covered here include linear algebra, differential equations, the Laplace transform, Fourier analysis, and complex analysis. These basic concepts essentially act as tools that facilitate the understanding of many techniques involved in different branches of mechanical engineering.