FACULTY OF COMPUTING ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING

AY: 2024-2025 – 1ST SEMESTER

ACTIVITY NO.1

1). In your own opinion what will happen to the world without mathematics?

In my opinion, a world without mathematics would be drastically different from the one we know
today. Mathematics is fundamental to so many aspects of our lives that its absence would create
significant challenges and changes.

First, consider how we manage everyday tasks. Simple things like budgeting, cooking, or even
planning travel rely on basic arithmetic. Without mathematics, we would struggle with calculating costs,
measuring ingredients, or determining travel times. This would make daily life much more complicated
and less efficient.

Secondly, technology as we know it would not exist. From smartphones to computers, all
modern technology depends on mathematical principles. Without math, we wouldn’t have the
algorithms and computations that power software, making the digital world we rely on impossible to
maintain.

In addition, architecture and engineering would be severely impacted. Mathematics is essential

for designing and constructing buildings and infrastructure. Without it, creating safe and functional
structures would be incredibly difficult, leading to a world with fewer advancements in construction and
possibly less safe environments.

Medicine would also face significant challenges. Medical research, diagnostics, and treatments
often use mathematical models and statistics. Without these tools, understanding diseases, developing
treatments, and improving healthcare would become much more difficult, affecting the quality of
medical care we receive.

Education would undergo a profound transformation as well. Mathematics is a core subject in

schools, and it helps develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Without it, the way we educate
future generations would need to be restructured, potentially leading to a decline in these essential
skills.

Science, in general, relies heavily on mathematics to understand and explain the natural world.
From physics to biology, mathematical models help us make sense of complex phenomena. Without
math, scientific progress would be slower, and our understanding of the universe would be limited.

Economics and finance would be fundamentally different too. Mathematics is crucial for
analyzing markets, managing investments, and understanding economic trends. Without it, the global
economy would operate in a less predictable and less organized manner, leading to greater financial
instability.

Communication and transportation would also suffer. Many systems, such as traffic
management and communication networks, depend on mathematical algorithms. Without these,
coordinating transportation and managing communications would become less efficient and more
chaotic.

In terms of everyday problem-solving, mathematics helps us make informed decisions based

on data. Without it, we would lack the tools to analyze information accurately, making it harder to solve
problems and make strategic choices in both personal and professional contexts.

Finally, the absence of mathematics would impact our ability to innovate and advance as a
society. Mathematics is the foundation of many fields of research and development. Without it,
technological and scientific advancements would be stunted, limiting our potential for growth and
discovery. Overall, a world without mathematics would be a less organized, less efficient, and less
advanced place. Mathematics is integral to so many facets of our lives that its absence would
fundamentally change the way we live, work, and understand the world.
2). What are the relevance of mathematics in your chosen field of concentration?

As a first-year Civil Engineering student, I’ve come to understand that mathematics is

fundamental to my field. Its applications are diverse and critical, influencing every aspect of civil
engineering from design to implementation.

Firstly, mathematics plays a crucial role in structural analysis. Understanding how structures
withstand various forces is essential to ensure their stability and safety. We use calculus and linear
algebra to analyze forces and moments acting on structures like beams and bridges. This mathematical
analysis ensures that structures can handle loads without failure.

Secondly, design calculations are integral to civil engineering. Designing safe and efficient
structures involves numerous mathematical computations. Algebra and calculus are used to calculate
load distributions, stress levels, and material strengths, helping engineers create accurate and reliable
designs that meet safety standards.

In surveying and measurement, geometry and trigonometry are essential for accurate land
assessment. These mathematical principles help in calculating distances, angles, and elevations, which
are crucial for planning and designing infrastructure projects. Precise measurements ensure that
structures are built according to specifications.

Mathematics is also vital in fluid mechanics, which deals with the behavior of fluids in systems
like pipes and reservoirs. Differential equations and calculus are used to model fluid flow and analyze
hydraulic systems. Understanding fluid mechanics is essential for designing efficient water and
wastewater systems.

In geotechnical engineering, mathematics helps analyze soil and rock behavior to ensure
stable foundations. Techniques from statistics are used to evaluate soil samples and predict settlement
and bearing capacity. This mathematical analysis is crucial for designing foundations that can support
structures safely.

Transportation engineering relies on mathematical models to optimize traffic flow and reduce
congestion. Statistics and optimization techniques are used to analyze traffic patterns, plan road
layouts, and improve transportation efficiency. Effective transportation design improves overall traffic
management and reduces delays.
 Environmental engineering involves addressing issues like pollution control and waste
management. Mathematics helps model the dispersion of pollutants and design treatment systems for
water and air. Calculus and differential equations are used to create effective environmental solutions.

Project management in civil engineering involves budgeting, scheduling, and resource

allocation. Mathematics is used to create accurate cost estimates, manage timelines, and optimize the
use of materials and labor. Effective project management ensures that projects are completed on time
and within budget.

Structural dynamics, which examines how structures respond to dynamic forces like
earthquakes, requires advanced mathematical techniques. Differential equations and matrix analysis
are used to study structural behavior under dynamic conditions, ensuring that structures can withstand
these forces.

The modern civil engineering relies on computational tools and software. Mathematics
underpins the algorithms and numerical methods used in these tools, enabling complex simulations and
accurate predictions. These computational tools enhance efficiency and accuracy in engineering tasks.

In conclusion, mathematics is integral to civil engineering, impacting every aspect of the field.
From designing safe structures to analyzing fluid flow and managing projects, mathematical principles
provide the foundation for solving complex problems and making informed decisions. As I continue my
studies, I look forward to deepening my understanding of these mathematical applications and their role
in shaping the future of civil engineering.
3). Would you consider mathematics as a queen of science?

Yes, I would consider mathematics as the queen of science. In my view, mathematics holds a
unique and central position in the world of science. Here’s why I think this is true.

First, mathematics provides the foundation for many scientific fields. Without math, we
wouldn’t have the tools to model and understand complex systems in physics, chemistry, and biology.
It’s the language in which scientific theories are written and tested.

Second, mathematics helps us describe natural phenomena accurately. Whether it’s the motion
of planets, the structure of molecules, or the growth patterns of organisms, math allows us to quantify
and analyze these processes in precise ways.

Third, math is essential for making predictions. Scientific research often involves predicting
future events or behaviors based on current data. Mathematical models and formulas are crucial for
these predictions, helping scientists test their hypotheses and theories.

Fourth, problem-solving in science heavily relies on mathematical techniques. From solving

equations to performing statistical analyses, math equips scientists with the tools they need to address
complex questions and challenges.

Fifth, mathematics is involved in technological advancements. Many modern technologies,

such as computers and medical imaging devices, are based on mathematical principles and algorithms.
Without math, we wouldn’t have many of the technological innovations we rely on today.

Sixth, math helps in data interpretation. Scientists collect vast amounts of data, and
mathematics is key to analyzing and making sense of this data. Statistical methods, for example, are
used to determine the significance of experimental results.

Seventh, mathematics provides a universal language for science. No matter where you are in
the world, mathematical principles remain the same. This universality helps scientists from different
countries collaborate and share their findings effectively.

Eighth, math is fundamental in developing scientific theories. Theoretical physics, for example,
relies on advanced mathematical concepts to formulate theories about the universe. These theories
help us understand complex concepts like quantum mechanics and relativity.
 Ninth, mathematical techniques are used to optimize processes and systems. In engineering
and technology, math is used to improve efficiency and design better systems. This optimization is
crucial for advancing various scientific and industrial applications.

Finally, math has a timeless quality. While scientific knowledge evolves, mathematical truths
remain constant. This timelessness underscores the foundational role that mathematics plays in the
progression of science.

In summary, I believe mathematics is indeed the queen of science. Its foundational role,
predictive power, problem-solving capabilities, and universal language make it central to all scientific
endeavors. Without math, the progress and understanding we achieve in science would be severely
limited.
4). Provide the 15 numbers from the left of the Fibonacci sequence.

The first 15 numbers of the Fibonacci sequence, starting from the left, are: 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8,
13, 21, 34, 55, 89, 144, 233, 377.

5). Expound why mathematical jargons are important to the scientists, mathematicians and engineers?

Mathematical jargon is crucial for scientists, mathematicians, and engineers. From my

perspective, these specialized terms help in several important ways.

First, mathematical jargon allows for precise communication. When scientists, mathematicians,
and engineers use specific terms, they convey exact meanings that might be lost with everyday
language. This precision helps in discussing complex concepts clearly and unambiguously.

Second, using mathematical jargon makes it easier to solve problems. For example, terms like
"derivative" or "integral" are essential for discussing calculus. Without these terms, explaining and
working through mathematical problems would be much more cumbersome and less efficient.

Third, mathematical jargon helps in developing and understanding theories. Terms like
"eigenvalues" or "matrices" are foundational in various theories. Having a specialized vocabulary allows
researchers to build on existing knowledge and advance their fields.

Fourth, it facilitates collaboration. When working on joint projects, scientists, mathematicians,

and engineers from different backgrounds need to share their findings quickly and accurately.
Mathematical jargon provides a common language that helps in discussing and comparing results.

Fifth, mathematical jargon is crucial for education and learning. In academic settings,
specialized terms are used to teach concepts effectively. Students and professionals alike need to
understand and use this language to grasp complex ideas and contribute to their fields.

Sixth, it aids in the documentation of research. Scientific papers and engineering reports often
rely on precise terminology to describe methods, results, and conclusions. This helps ensure that
findings are recorded accurately and can be reviewed and replicated by others.

Seventh, mathematical jargon enhances problem-solving efficiency. Terms like "optimization" or

"probability distributions" are used to describe specific techniques and methods. Using these terms
helps in applying the right tools to solve problems more effectively.
 Eighth, it helps in the development of new tools and technologies. Engineers and scientists
use mathematical jargon to describe and design new systems. This specialized language ensures that
complex ideas are communicated clearly during the development process.

Ninth, mathematical jargon supports innovation. Many breakthroughs in science and engineering rely on
advanced mathematical concepts. Understanding and using this language enables professionals to explore new
ideas and push the boundaries of their fields.

Finally, mathematical jargon is a key part of professional identity. For scientists,

mathematicians, and engineers, using specialized language helps define their expertise and distinguish
their work. It reinforces their role within their respective fields and contributes to their professional
credibility.

In summary, mathematical jargon is essential for precise communication, problem-solving,

collaboration, education, documentation, and innovation. It enables scientists, mathematicians, and
engineers to work effectively, share knowledge, and advance their fields. Understanding and using this
specialized language is vital for anyone involved in these disciplines.