Introduction

Math plays more of a role in our lives than many people realize. Math is also a huge part of our studies in science. Although science may appear to be quite a different subject, the study of math can ultimately help us more readily understand concepts in science.

At its essence, science is the study of how the universe – and the things that exist in this universe – work. Math can reveal and relate what scientists discover by helping them find relationships between an experiment’s hypothesis and the data that is collected. By using statistics, scientists can use data as evidence to either support or dispute their original theories. Without the application of math in this regard, proving or disproving scientific theories would be impossible.

The ability to accurately determine calculations or scientific principles is largely the result of the relationship between math and science. In physics, calculus and differential equations are used in order to study complex relationships between one property and another. Some examples of this are the centripetal force a moving object exerts or the gravitational force that the Earth has on its satellites, including the moon.

Science applies both simple and complex mathematical concepts, such as measuring the amount of chemicals to use in a solution or figuring out the velocity required in order for the Mars Curiosity Rover to safely land on Mars. At its most basic, math is a tool that reinforces scientific theories; at its most complex, it can be a driving force that powers scientific discovery.

What are some real world applications of trigonometry?

 

 

Trigonometry is often used in real world applications, such as astronomy, architecture, engineering, music theory and geography. Trigonometry was originally developed for geography and astronomy.

One of the most common uses for trigonometry, is in mathematics. Linear algebra, calculus and statistics all use trigonometry in one form or another. Trigonometry was first applied to spheres, but it wasn't long before mathematicians discovered it worked even better with planes.

Trigonometry plays an important role in physics. Statics and optics are some of the earliest forms of physics that rely heavily on trig, but since trigonometry helps in understanding space, all branches of physics rely on its use.

Applications of Trigonometry in Astronomy

More than 2,000 years ago, trigonometry tables were created to make computations for astronomy. Astronomers used these tables to track the movement of the planets, and although this spherical trigonometry is no longer used, astronomers still regularly use trigonometry.

Mathematics in Music

Although music theory might be the last place a person would expect to find trigonometry, its identities are applicable in the field of stringed instruments. When musicians calculate the physics behind a stringed instrument and its sound, trigonometric identities come into play. One example is that the vibration of a violin possesses the same shape as a sine function. When trigonometry comes into play in the field of music, it is generally associated with frequency which is represented by kHz.

 

How is math used in engineering?

Electrical Engineering

Mathematics is a wide discipline and has many forms. In the various engineering fields, different forms of math may be applied to achieve a specific.In engineering, math is used to design and develop new components or products, maintain operating components, model real-life situations for testing and learning purposes, as well as build and maintain structures. Math is a core component of every engineering field and is also widely used in research.
For instance, linear algebra is widely applied in electrical engineering to design electrical circuits. Boolean algebra is the basis of digital logic design, a key component of building computers.

Civil & Mechanical Engineering

In civil and mechanical engineering, geometry is used to design structures and ensure that they perform in a safe and meaningful way. When designing a bridge, civil engineers may use differential equations to calculate the approximate size of the supporting piers needed. They may also use complex mathematical modeling to predict the lifespan of the structure to be constructed.

Industrial Engineering

Industrial engineers use calculus to find the rate at which certain variables will change in a given operation. Industrial engineering routinely entails making approximations and safe estimations to ensure that all processes are properly controlled. One or more forms of mathematics are used in these approximations and estimations