Describe and apply basic numerical methods for civil engineering problem solving

Motivate the study of numerical methods through discussion of engineering applications.

Use of numerical techniques to investigate case studies in civil engineering topics including hydraulics,
geotechnics and structures. Interpolation and numerical integration techniques; numerical solutions to
ordinary differential equations using Runge-Kutta and multistep techniques; application of finite
difference techniques to partial differential equations using parabolic and elliptic equations;
convergence and error analysis, development and application of computer programs to case studies
derived from civil engineering practices.

To introduce the principles of numerical techniques to junior level civil engineering students. To review
and implement the basic principles of interpolation and polynomial approximation, numerical
integration, solving simple ordinary differential equations and partial differential equations.

Question: Sir what is the importance of "Numerical Methods" in civil engineering

and how and where this technique is used in civil engineering.
By: Kumar Gaurav Email: gaurav.bardar@gmail.com Date: 2012-12-18
Answer: Dear Gaurav, Numerical methods in Civil Engineering are now used
routinely in structural analysis to determine the member forces and moments in
structural systems, prior to design. They are most useful in analyzing civil
engineering problems with complicated geometries, material properties and loading
conditions, where analytical methods are either very difficult or impossible to use.
Consider for example, a beam in a building with multiple holes, at varying
locations. Such a beam is common in present day structures - due to the need to
design for air conditioning and other utility ducts in a structure. Such a beam can be
easily analyzed using the finite element method - one of the most commonly used
numerical technique in civil engineering.