Further Engineering

Mathematics 8

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UNIT 8

Getting to know your unit

Mathematics is a way in which engineers model the world around them

Assessm ent and test their ideas and designs before these become real products.
This unit will be Statistics might be used during manufacturing processes as part of the
assesse d by a series of quality control (QC) system and to determine the in-service reliability of
assignm ents set by your a product. As an engineer you need to understand and develop the skills
required to solve complex problems and analyse data.
tutor.

How you will be assessed

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This unit will be assessed by a series of internally assessed tasks set by your tutor.
Throughout this unit you will find assessment activities to help you work towards your
assessment. Completing these activities will mean that you carried out useful research
AF or preparation that will be relevant when it comes to your final assignment.
In order for you to achieve the tasks in your assignment, it is important to check that
you have met all of the assessment criteria. You can do this as you work your way
through the assignment.
The assignments set by your tutor will consist of a number of tasks designed to meet
the criteria in the table.
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2 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Getting to know your unit UNIT 8

Further Engineering Mathematics

Assessment criteria

This table shows what you must do in order to achieve a Pass, Merit or Distinction grade, and where
you can find activities to help you.

Pass Merit Distinction

Learning aim A Examine how sequences and series can be used to solve engineering problems

A.P1 A.M1 3A.D1

Solve given problems using routine Solve given problems accurately using Evaluate, using technically correct language
arithmetic and geometric progression routine and non-routine arithmetic and and a logical structure, engineering
operations. geometric progression operations. problems using non-routine sequence and
Assessment practice 8.1 Assessment practice 8.1 series operations, while solving all the given
problems accurately using routine and
non-routine operations.
Assessment practice 8.1

A.P2 A.M2

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Solve given problems using routine Solve given problems accurately using
power series operations. routine and non-routine power series
Assessment practice 8.1 operations.
AF Assessment practice 8.1
Learning aim B Examine how matrices and determinants can be used to solve engineering problems

B.P3 B.M3 BC.D2

Solve given problems using routine Solve given problems accurately using Evaluate, using technically correct language
matrices and determinant operations. routine and non-routine matrices and and a logical structure, engineering
Assessment practice 8.2 determinant operations. problems using non-routine matrices,
Assessment practice 8.2 determinant and complex operations, while
solving all the given problems accurately
using routine and non-routine operations.
Assessment practice 8.2
Learning aim C
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Examine how complex numbers can be used to solve engineering problems

C.P4 C.M4
Solve given problems using routine Solve given problems accurately using
complex number operations. routine and non-routine complex
Assessment practice 8.2 number operations.
Assessment practice 8.2
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Learning aim D Investigate how statistical and probability techniques can be used to solve engineering problems

D.P5 D.M5 D.D3

Solve an engineering problem Solve an engineering problem accurately Evaluate the correct synthesis and
using routine central tendency, using routine and non-routine central application of statistics and probability
dispersion and probability distribution tendency, dispersion and probability to solve engineering problems accurately
operations. distribution operations, providing an involving routine and non-routine
Assessment practice 8.3 explanation of the process. operations.
Assessment practice 8.3 Assessment practice 8.3

D.P6 D.M6
Solve an engineering problem using Solve engineering problems accurately
routine linear regression operations. using routine and non-routine regression
Assessment practice 8.3 operations, providing an explanation of
the process.
Assessment practice 8.3

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 Getting started
You have already studied quite a few mathematical topics, and gained skills
and knowledge. Think back to what you have learned in the past. Try doing
a few warm-up questions from your previous work. List your mathematical
skills and make a truthful estimate of your ability with them. Like all skills,
mathematical skills benefit from practice. When you have completed this
unit, see how your previous skills and knowledge have developed and
identify some new ones to add to your list.

Examine how sequences and series can be used to

A solve engineering problems

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A1 Arithmetic and geometric One famous sequence was described by an Italian known
today as Fibonacci in his The Book of Calculations.
progressions
Sequences AF Research
One way that you can begin to understand the relationship Investigate the Fibonacci sequence. How is it formed?
between measured values in an engineering problem is to What is the link between numbers in the sequence
look for patterns by putting the numbers in sequence. This (called Fibonacci numbers)?
makes it easier for you to examine how the values relate
Who was Fibonacci? When was he alive?
to each other. You can express the relationship as a rule to
identify when values fit into a sequence. In some cases, the What important system did he introduce to Europe?
rule can be written as an equation.
Look at the following sequences:
Progressions
▸▸ {1, 2, 3, 4, 5} is the sequence of the first five positive
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The Fibonacci sequence is actually a progression because
integers. It could also be called the first five counting
it meets the criterion of each element being related to
numbers or simply the numbers 1 to 5. This is a finite
previous elements by the same rule. Each element is the
sequence. (Note that more than one rule can describe
sum of the two previous elements:
the same sequence.)
▸▸ {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, …} is a similar sequence, but the three dots xn = xn − 1 + xn − 2
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‘…’ indicate that the sequence continues indefinitely. This The Fibonacci sequence occurs naturally in such examples
is an infinite sequence. as the number of seeds in a seed head and the way a snail
▸▸ A sequence does not have to increase. For example,
shell grows. Look at the patterns made by the petals of a
{5, 4, 3, 2, 1} is the sequence counting down from 5 to 1. flower. Do they follow a Fibonacci progression?
This is a finite sequence.
▸▸ A sequence can contain the same number many times. Keyterms
For example, {1, 0, 1, 0, 1, …} is an alternating sequence Progression – a sequence in which each term is related
of 1s and 0s. This is an infinite sequence. to the previous term or terms by a uniform law.
A sequence is a set, but not all sets are sequences. All progressions are sequences, but not all sequences
The examples above highlight two differences: are progressions.
▸▸ The elements of a sequence are in order. Sequence – a set of numbers written in order according
▸▸ A number can be repeated in a sequence, but in a set to some rule. Each value in the sequence is called an
each number can appear only once. element, a term or a member.

4 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Learning aim A UNIT 8

Further Engineering Mathematics

▸▸ Fibonacci numbers in nature

Key term
Series
The sum of the n-term sequence {a1, a2, a3, …, an} is Series – the sum of the terms
in a sequence.

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Sn = a1 + a2 + a3 + … + an
For example, the sum of the first four terms in the Fibonacci sequence
{1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, …} is
S4 = 1 + 1 + 2 + 3 = 7 AF 1 Write the following sequences:
PaUSe PoINT
a) the first five odd numbers
b) the numbers counting down from 50 in fives
c) the number of days in each month starting from January
d) the square of integer values.
2 Identify which of the above are finite sequences.
3 Identify which are infinite sequences.
4 Identify which are progressions.
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Hint Check that you understand the similarities and differences between a sequence and
a progression.
Extend What is the difference between a finite sequence and an infinite sequence?
1 What is the 20th term of the Fibonacci sequence? (Try to calculate it without
writing out all the values.)
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2 Calculate S5 for the sequence {2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, …}.

arithmetic progressions
The sequence in the second ‘Extend’ question of the previous Pause Point is an
example of an arithmetic progression. The common difference between terms is 2.
Key term
Table 8.1 shows how the numbers in this progression are formed.
arithmetic progression – a
▸▸ Table 8.1 How the numbers in the progression {2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, …} are generated
sequence of numbers where
Position in the difference between any
n = 1 n = 2 n = 3 n = 4 n = 5 n = 6 n = 7 …
sequence two successive terms is a
Value 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 … constant. This constant is called
How formed 2 2 + 2 2 + (2 × 2) 2 + (2 × 3) 2 + (2 × 4) 2 + (2 × 5) 2 + (2 × 6) … the common difference (d).

▸▸ The 1st term is a1 = 2 + (2 × (0))

▸▸ The 2nd term is a2 = 2 + (2 × (1))
▸▸ The nth term is an = 2 + (2 × (n − 1))

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 For any arithmetic progression, with initial value a and
Research
common difference d, the terms are
{a, (a + d), (a + 2d), (a + 3d), …, (a + (n − 1)d), …} Investigate how you can show that the three equations
The last term of a finite arithmetic progression is for finding the sum of an arithmetic progression are
actually the same. You can find the proof in many
l = a + (n − 1)d
textbooks or on the internet.

Worked Example
Worked Example
An oil rig drills to a depth of 1000 metres. Estimate
the cost of drilling if the first metre costs £200, with Find the sum of the first 15 odd numbers.
an increase of £22 for each further metre drilled.
Solution
Solution
This is an arithmetic progression with
Step 1: Identify the first term, the common difference
a = 200, d = 22, n = 1000.
and the number of terms in the sum:
The cost of drilling to a depth of 1000 m is the

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a = 1, d = 2, n = 15.
1000th term in the progression:
a1000 = 200 + (22 × (1000 − 1))
Step 2: Substitute the values into a formula for Sn.
= 200 + 21 978 = 22 178
Using Sn = __12 n(2a + (n − 1)d) directly:
The cost is £22 178. AF Sn = __12 (15)(2 × 1 + (15 − 1) × 2) = 225
Alternatively, first calculate the last term l
arithmetic series and then use Sn = __12 n(a + l):
The sum of the first n terms in an arithmetic progression is l = 1 + (15 − 1)(2) = 29
Sn = a + (a + d) + (a + 2d) + (a + 3d) + ... + (a + (n − 1)d) Sn = __12 (15)(1 + 29) = 225.
This can also be written in two slightly different ways:
Sn = __12 n(a + l)
The arithmetic mean is the sum of the arithmetic series
where l is the last term in the sum, or
divided by the number of terms:
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Sn = __12 n(2a + (n − 1)d) Sn
arithmetic mean = ___
n
Key term For example, the arithmetic mean of the first 15 odd
arithmetic series – the sum of the terms in an numbers is:
arithmetic progression. S15 _____
____ 225
= = 15
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15 15

Calculate:
PaUSe PoINT
a) the 9th and 17th terms of the arithmetic progression with first term 10 and
common difference 4
b) the 12th and 20th terms of the arithmetic progression with first term 60 and
common difference −6
c) the 4th and 10th terms of the arithmetic progression with first term 2 and
common difference __14 .
Hint Follow the steps in the worked examples carefully.
Extend Calculate:
a) the time taken to make 200 components if the first one takes 5 minutes and each
additional one takes 2 minutes
b) the sum of the first 20 even numbers
c) the arithmetic mean of the first 20 even numbers.

6 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Learning aim A UNIT 8

Geometric progressions

Further Engineering Mathematics

The geometric progression {1, 3, 9, 27, 81, 243, …} has first term a = 1 and common Key term
ratio r = 3.
Geometric progression – a
In Table 8.2 we look at the numbers in this progression more closely. sequence of numbers where
each element is multiplied by
▸▸ Table 8.2 How the numbers in the progression {1, 3, 9, 27, 81, 243, …} are formed
a constant value to form the
Position in sequence n = 1 n = 2 n = 3 n = 4 n = 5 n = 6 next element in the sequence.
Value 1 3 9 27 81 243 This constant multiplier is
How formed 1 1 × 31 1 × 32 1 × 33 1 × 34 1 × 35 called the common ratio (r).

The nth term is 1 × 3n−1

In general, you can write a geometric progression with first term a and common ratio r
as {a, ar 1, ar2, ar 3, …, arn−1}.
You can also have a negative and/or fractional common ratio.

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Worked Example – Motor speeds
The motor powering an oil drill has five speeds. These vary from 10 rpm to 160 rpm in a geometric progression. Find
the common ratio, and make a table showing the five required speeds.
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Solution
Extract the data given in the question:
a1 = 10, a5 = 160, n = 5 ▸▸ Table 8.3 The five speeds of the motor
The nth term is given by an = a1r(n−1), so n = 1 a1 = 10 × 20 = 10.0 rpm
a5 = 160 = 10r(5−1) n = 2 a2 = 10 × 21 = 20.0 rpm
16 = r 4 n = 3 a3 = 10 × 22 = 40.0 rpm
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r=   =2
√16 n = 4 a4 = 10 × 23 = 80.0 rpm
Now you can make a table showing the five speeds, as in Table 8.3. n = 5 a5 = 10 × 24 = 160.0 rpm
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Worked Example – Depreciation costs
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An engineering company installs a new machine for £75 000. The machine’s value depreciates at a rate d of 15% per
annum (a year).
a) What will the machine’s value be after seven years?
b) How long will it take for the value to be less than £37 500 (half the initial value)?
Solution
a) The value of the machine in successive years forms a geometric progression.
The initial value is taken to be at year 0: a0 = 75 000.
The common ratio is r = 1 − d = 0.85.
Note that because we start at year 0, the equation for the nth term of the geometric progression (representing the
value after n years) will be an = a0rn.
Therefore the value after seven years (n = 7) will be
a7 = 75 000 × 0.857 = £24 043.28 or £24 043 (to the nearest pound).

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 b) To find how long it will take for the machine’s value to equal £37 500, solve the equation:
37 500 = 75 000 (0.85)n
Rearrange to make n the subject:
37 500
_______ = (0.85)n Divide both sides by 75 000.
75 000
__1 = (0.85)n
2
log(__12 ) = nlog (0.85) Take logs of both sides and use the rules of logarithms.
−0.30103 = n(−0.07058)
−0.30103
n = __________ = 4.265
−0.07058
It will take 4.3 years for the machine to depreciate to less than £37 500.

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Geometric series
Key term
The sum of a geometric series is given by
Geometric series – the sum
of the terms in a geometric Sn = a + ar + ar 2 + ar 3 + … + arn
progression.

Research

Investigate how you can

AF This can also be written as
a(1 − rn)
Sn = _________ provided that r ≠ 1
(1 − r)

show that the two equations Worked Example

for the geometric series are
Find the sum of the first five terms of the geometric series 1 + 3 + 9 + ...
equivalent.
Solution
Identify the parameters:
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a = 1, r = 3, n = 5
Substitute these values into the formula:
a(1 − rn)
Sn = _________
(1 − r)
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1 × (1 − 35) 1 − 243 −242

S5 = ____________ = ________ = ______ = 121
(1 − 3) 1−3 −2

Key terms Convergence of a geometric series

If the common ratio of a geometric progression is a proper fraction (either positive or
Convergent series – a series
negative, but smaller than 1 in size), then each term will get smaller as n gets bigger. In
for which Sn heads towards
other words, the terms become less significant the further along the series you go.
a specific value as n (the
number of terms in the sum) For example, if a = 4 and r = __14 , the geometric series is
increases. 4 + 1 + __14 + ___
1
16
+…
Divergent series – a series
You reach a point where adding more terms does not make any noticeable difference
for which Sn does not settle
to the total − the series converges to a final value. The sum to infinity of a convergent
down to a definite value as n
infinite geometric series is
increases.
a
S∞ = _______ provided that −1 < r < 1
(1 − r)

8 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Learning aim A UNIT 8

Further Engineering Mathematics

Calculate
PaUSe PoINT
a) the sum of the first six terms of the geometric series 2 + 8 + 32 + …
b) the sum to infinity of the geometric series with first term a = 10 and common
ratio r = __12 .
Hint Use your research into the effect of the common ratio on convergence.

The numbers in Pascal’s triangle relate to the terms in the

Research
expansion of (a + b)n, called the binomial expansion. The
Investigate how the value of the common ratio terms of the binomial expansion are written in sequence.
affects whether a geometric series is convergent or The first term is a raised to the power n. In the second term,
divergent. the power of a reduces by 1 while the power of b increases
by 1. This pattern continues until the power of a is reduced
to zero and you are left with just b raised to the power n.
Pascal’s triangle gives the coefficients of the terms
Worked Example

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involving a and b in the binomial expansion.
Find the sum to infinity of the geometric series The top line of Pascal’s triangle relates to (a + b)0.
4 + 1 + __14 + ___
1
16
+… (Remember that anything raised to the power zero is 1.)

Solution
AF 1 (a + b)0 1
Here a = 4 and r = __14 , so −1 < r < 1 is true. 1 1 (a + b)1 a + b
1 2 1 (a + b)2 a2 + 2ab + b2
The sum to infinity of the geometric series is
1 3 3 1 (a + b)3 a3 + 3a2b + 3ab2 + b3
4 4 16
S∞ = _______ = __3 = ___ = 5__13
(1 − 4 ) 4 3
__
1 __
The triangle can be continued indefinitely following
the same pattern − each number is obtained by adding
The sum never quite reaches this value, but gets
together the two nearest numbers in the line above it.
close enough for all practical purposes.
Note that the coefficients are symmetrical as long as
you write the terms of the binomial expansion strictly in
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sequence, with the power of a decreasing and the power
of b increasing.
A2 Binomial expansion This method of expanding (a + b)n works, but you would
A binomial is an algebraic expression with two terms need a very big sheet of paper to find the coefficients in
connected by a plus or minus sign, such as (a + b), (x − 3) or the expansion of (2x + 3)22. Luckily there is another way to
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(2x + 3)2. determine the expansion, by using the formula

A general binomial expression can be written as (a + b)n. n(n − 1)
(a + b)n = an + nan−1b1 + _________ an−2b2
2!
You probably already know how to expand a squared n(n − 1)(n − 2)
expression such as (2x + 3)2 using FOIL (First−Outside− + _______________ an−3b3 + … + bn
3!
Inside−Last), but what about an expression like (2x + 3)22?
This equation uses ‘factorial’ notation: 2! = 2 × 1,
One interesting way to tackle the problem uses a pattern 3! = 3 × 2 × 1 and so on. Most scientific calculators have a
that was known to the ancient Chinese but is more often factorial function (!).
referred to as Pascal’s triangle. (Blaise Pascal was a French
mathematician and physicist of the 17th century.) Key terms
Binomial – a polynomial with two terms.
Research
Coefficient – a number which multiplies a variable.
Investigate Pascal’s triangle and the patterns that can n factorial (n!) – n multiplied by (n − 1) multiplied by
be found in it. (n − 2) and so on, until multiplied by 1.

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 The coefficients of a binomial expansion are actually given A binomial expansion can be written in ‘shorthand’ using
by a function called ‘n choose r’, which is the number of ‘sigma’ notation, where the Greek letter Σ stands for ‘sum’:
r=n
ways of choosing r objects from a set of n objects.
= ∑( r )an−rbr
n
(a + b)n
There are several ways of writing ‘n choose r’, such as ( r )
n
r=0
or nCr. It is given in terms of factorials as
n!
_________ Summary – binomial expansions
nCr = 
r!(n − r)!
• A binomial (a + b)n, where n is a positive integer,
Most scientific calculators have a nCr function.
expands to give terms in an, an−1b1, an−2b2, an−3b3 etc.
The final term is bn.
Worked Example • The sum of the powers in each term equals n.
• The coefficient of the first and last terms is 1.
Find the coefficients of the terms in the expansion • The coefficient of the second and penultimate
of (a + b)4. terms is n.
Solution • The coefficients can also be obtained using the ‘n
The first term corresponds to r = 0: choose r’ function.

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(0) = 0!(4 − 0)! (Note that, by convention, 0! = 1)
4!
4 __________ • The first term in the expansion has r = 0.
• The expansion of (a + b)n can be written as
4×3×2×1 n(n − 1)
= _________________ = 1 (a + b)n = an + nan−1b1 + _________ an−2b2
(1)(4 × 3 × 2 × 1) AF 2!
The second term corresponds to r = 1: n(n − 1)(n − 2) n−3 3
_______________
+ a b + … + bn
(1) = 1!(4 − 1)!
4!
4 __________ 3!
r=n

= ∑( r )an−rbr .
n
or (a + b)n
4×3×2×1 r=0
= ______________ = 4
(1)(3 × 2 × 1) n!
where nCr = _________ .
r!(n – r)!
The third term corresponds to r = 2:

(2) = 2!(4 − 2)!

4 4!
__________ If the first term in the binomial expression is 1, then we get
the simpler formula
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4×3×2×1 n(n − 1) n(n − 1)(n − 2)
= ______________ = 6 (1 + x)n = 1 + nx + _________x2 + _______________x3 + … + xn
(2 × 1)(2 × 1) 2! 3!
By symmetry, you know that the coefficient of the This is valid for positive integer values of n, but what about
fourth term is the same as the coefficient of the other values? The binomial expansion for (1 + x)n can still
second term (4), and the coefficient of the fifth term be carried out when n is not a positive integer, but only if
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is the same as the coefficient of the first term (1). the value of x lies between −1 and +1. The expansion gives
So (a + b)4 = a4 + 4a3b1 + 6a2b2 + 4a1b3 + b4. an infinite series. In applications (see worked example on
page XX), you have to decide at what point further terms
in the sum become so small as to be insignificant.

Check the conditions for the binomial expansion of (1 + x)−1 to be a convergent

PaUSe PoINT
infinite series.
Hint Try simple numbers in the binomial expansion.
Extend For the following binomial expressions, calculate the values obtained using the
binomial expansion formula and check the answers against values given by a
calculator:
1
_________ = (1 + 0.2)−1
(1 + 0.2)
1
_______ = (1 + 2)−1
(1 + 2)

10 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Learning aim A UNIT 8

Further Engineering Mathematics

Worked Example
You have just built an electronic
___
circuit that gives an oscillating signal. The periodic time of the oscillation is
given by the formula T = 2π√LC  , where L and C are the values of the inductor and capacitor in the circuit.
When you measure the values used, you find that the inductor value is 2% above the nominal value, and the
capacitor value is 1% below its nominal value. Use the binomial expansion to calculate the expected percentage
error in T.

Solution
Step 1: Write the equation for T using the actual values of the inductor and capacitor, which will be 1.02L
(2% above nominal value) and 0.99C (1% below nominal value).
_______________
The measured value of T is T = 2π√(1.02L)(0.99C)
 

Step 2: Rewrite T with the coefficients as binomial terms:

_________________________
T = 2π√((1
  + 0.02)L)((1 − 0.01)C)
______________________

T
= 2π√LC(1
  + 0.02)(1 − 0.01)
___ __________ __________
  √(1
= 2π√LC   + 0.02) √(1
  − 0.01)
___
__1 __1
  (1 + 0.02) 2(1 − 0.01) 2
= 2π√LC
AF __1 __1
2(2
__1

)( 2 )
__1 __1 − 1 __1 − 2
__1
Step 3: Apply the binomial expansion formula to (1 + 0.02) 2 and (1 − 0.01) 2s eparately.
(1 + 0.02) 2 has x = 0.02 and n = __12
__1

( 2 )( 2 − 1)
(1 + 0.02) 2 = 1 + (__21 )(0.02) + __________(0.02)2 + _______________(0.02)3 + …
__1

2! 3!
= 1 + 0.01 − 0.000 05 + 0.000 000 5 + … ≈ 1.009 95
(1 − 0.01) 2 has x = −0.01 and n = __12
__1

( 2 )( 2 − 1) 2(2 )( 2 )
__1 __1 __1 __1 − 1 __1 − 2
(1 − 0.01) 2 = 1 + (__12 )(−0.01) + __________(−0.01)2 + _______________(−0.01)3 + …
__1

2! 3!
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= 1 − 0.005 − 0.000 012 5 − 0.000 000 062 5 + … ≈ 0.994 99

Step 4: Calculate the expected error in T:

__1 __1
(1 + 0.02) 2(1 − 0.01) 2 ≈ 1.009 95 × 0.994 99 = 1.004 89
so the expected percentage error in T is 0.004 89 = 0.489%.
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Summary – binomial expansion of (1 + x)n

The binomial expansion of (1 + x)n for all positive integer values of n:

n(n − 1) n(n − 1)(n − 2)
(1 + x)n = 1 + nx + _________ x2 + _______________ x3 + … + xn
2! 3!
The expansion can also be used for values of n that are not positive integers,
provided that x lies between −1 and +1.

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 A3 Power series
A power series is a way of writing a function as an infinite series of power terms:
f(x) = a0 + a1x + a2 x2 + a3x3 + …
Research You can use the series to estimate the value of a function.

Revise the derivatives of Taylor series

basic functions. You can also write a function as a Taylor series about the point a:
f(x) = a0 + a1(x − a) + a2(x − a)2 + a3(x − a)3 + …
To calculate the values of the coefficients a0, a1, a2 etc., you need to know how to
differentiate the function:
f′(a) f″(a) f‴(a)
f(x) = f(a) + _____(x − a) + _____(x − a)2 + ______(x − a)3 + …
1! 2! 3!
where f′, f″, f‴ are the first, second and third derivatives of the function f(x).

Worked Example

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Express f(x) = sin x as a power series.
You need to know that
• the derivative of sin x is cos x
AF • the derivative of cos x is −sin x.
Solution
Use the Taylor series formula:
f′(a) f″(a) f‴(a)
f(x) = f(a) + _____(x − a) + _____(x − a)2 + ______(x − a)3 + …
1! 2! 3!
Choose a = 0 to get simple powers of x:
f′(0) f″(0) f‴(0)
sin x = f(0) + _____(x) + _____(x)2 + ______(x)3 + …
1! 2! 3!
The coefficients are:
a0 = f(0) = sin 0 = 0
f′(0) cos 0 1
R
a1 = _____ = ______ = __ = 1
1! 1! 1
f″(0) _______
_____ −sin 0 0
a2 = = = − __ = 0
2! 2! 2
f‴(0) −cos 0 −1
a3 = ______ = _______ = ___ etc. So
3! 3! 6
−1 1
sin x = 0 + (x) + 0(x)2 + ___(x)3 + … = x − __ x3 + …
D

6 6
Note that the sine function does not contain any even powers.

Key term The worked example uses a special case of the Taylor series where a = 0. This is known
as a Maclaurin series:
Maclaurin series – a Taylor
f′(0) f″(0) f‴(0)
series with a = 0. f(x) = f(0) + _____ x + _____ x2 + ______ x3 + …
1! 2! 3!

Practise using power series expansions.

PaUSe PoINT
Use the Maclaurin series to write the first four terms of the expansion of f(x) = ex.
Hint Follow the worked example carefully, then try again without using the example.
Extend Calculate the sum of the first four terms of the expansion of f(x) = ex, for x = 0.
Compare your result with the value for e0 obtained from your calculator.
Did you predict the answer?

12 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Learning aim B UNIT 8

Assessment practice 8.1

Further Engineering Mathematics

Solve the following problems involving sequences and series. It is Plan
important that you show all the steps in your calculations clearly. • What techniques will I need to use to
You also need to give a brief explanation of each step. complete the task? How am I going to
1 Identify the type of progression in each case: approach each problem and keep track
a) {3, 5, 7, 9, …} of my progress?
b {5, 10, 20, …}. • How confident do I feel in my abilities to
2 Calculate: complete this task?
a) the fifth term for each progression in question 1. • Are there any areas I think I may struggle
b) the sum of the first five terms for each progression in with?
question 1, using the appropriate formulae. Do
c) the sum to infinity of the geometric progression which has • I know what strategies I could employ for
a = 4 and r = 0.5. the task. I can determine whether these
are right for the task.
3 Calculate the time taken to make 500 components if the first
• I can assess whether my strategies are
one takes 4 minutes and each additional one takes 3 minutes.

T
working and, if not, what changes I need
4 A vehicle has a five-speed gearbox. The gears vary from 3.00 : 1 to make.
to 0.72 : 1 in a geometric progression. Find the common ratio, • I can identify when I’ve gone wrong
and make a table showing the gears for the five speeds. and adjust my thinking/approach to get
5 An engineering company installs a new computer system for myself back on course.
AF
£50 000. If value of the system depreciates at a rate of 20% per
annum, what will its value be after three years?
6 Draw Pascal’s triangle and use the values to expand (x + 2)5.
7 Expand (x + 2)5 using the binomial theorem and compare the
Review
• I can evaluate whether I have succeeded
in solving the problem.
• I can identify the elements in the task
answer with the one from question 6. that are difficult for me and explain how
I would approach them differently next
8 Expand (x + 2)0.5 using the binomial theorem.
time.
9 Expand (x + 2)−0.5 using the binomial theorem.
10 Write the first four terms of the Maclaurin expansion for f(x) = ex.
R
11 a) Calculate the value of e1 using the first four terms of the
Maclaurin expansion.
b) Compare the value obtained in part a) with the value
obtained using a calculator.
D

Examine how matrices and determinants can be

B used to solve engineering problems
B1 Matrices
You have already used two simultaneous equations to solve problems involving two
Key term
variables. Many engineering problems contain multiple variables. In order to solve
them, you need as many equations as there are variables. Matrix arithmetic provides Matrix – a set of data
ways to write data in a compact form and to solve multiple simultaneous equations. arranged in rows and
columns.
Types of matrix
A matrix is a rectangular array made up of a number of rows and columns. The
number of rows and the number of columns describe the matrix size or order
(rows × columns). For example:

13
 (d e f )
a b c
is a 2 × 3 matrix Matrix addition and subtraction
Addition and subtraction can only be carried out when the
a b

(e f )
c d is a 3 × 2 matrix matrices involved are of the same order (that is, they have
the same size and shape). This is because corresponding
elements in each matrix are combined.
(a b c d) is a 1 × 4 matrix
For example, if A = (1 2 3) and B = (4 5 6), then
(f g h i j)
a b c d e
is a 2 × 5 matrix A + B = (1 + 4 2 + 5 3 + 6) = (5 7 9).

Some matrices have special names: It follows that A + B and B + A give the same result. In other
words, A + B = B + A.
▸▸ An n × 1 matrix is called a ‘column’ matrix.
▸▸ A 1 × n matrix is called a ‘row’ matrix. Note that the resulting matrix is of the same order as the
▸▸ A matrix with an equal number of rows and columns matrices being added.
(for example, 2 × 2 or 3 × 3) is said to be square. In general:

( j k l)
If A = (
d e f)
The entries in the matrix (the a, b, c etc. in the examples a b c g h i
and B = ,
above) are the elements of the matrix. These are sometimes

T
expressed by their coordinates within the matrix, for example
( d ± j e ± k f ± l)
a±g b±h c±i
a1,1 a1,2 then A ± B =

(a3,1 a3,2)
a2,1 a2,2 , where the first subscript is the row number
Scalar multiplication of a matrix
and the second subscript is the column number.

matrix is called the leading diagonal.

AF
The diagonal from top left to bottom right of a square
Imagine calculating 3A by adding A + A + A:

3A = 3(
d e f ) (d e f ) (d e f ) (d e f )
a b c
=
a b c

=(
+
a b c
+
a b c

3d 3e 3f )
A square matrix that has values of 1 on the leading 3a 3b 3c
diagonal and all other elements 0 is called an identity
1 0 0
(0 0 1)
matrix (or unit matrix). For example, 0 1 0 is the This tells us that to multiply a matrix by a constant value
(a scalar), simply multiply each element by that value.
3 × 3 identity matrix. The resulting matrix will be of the same order as the
A null matrix (or zero matrix) is a matrix in which all the original matrix. This also works for negative and fractional
R
elements are zero. scalars.
A square matrix where all the elements either below or
Matrix multiplication
above the diagonal are zero is called a triangular matrix.
Multiplying two matrices A and B can only be carried out
For example, (
0 3)
1 2
has zero below the diagonal, so it is if the number of columns in matrix A equals the number of
D

4 0 0 rows in matrix B − see Figure 8.1.

(−9 11 6)
an upper triangular matrix; 7 −1 0 has only zeros
A  B can be done
above the diagonal, so it is a lower triangular matrix. (2  3) . (3  1)
A matrix is transposed when its rows are written as
2  1
columns and its columns written as rows, for example
The resulting matrix is a (2  1)
a b T a c e

(e f ) ( b d f )
c d = , where the superscript T denotes ▸▸ Figure 8.1 Testing whether matrix multiplication is possible
g
(d e f ) ( i)
‘transpose’. a b c
If A = and B = h , then the product

Matrix calculations g
( d e f ) (h)
a b c
You need to follow a number of rules to carry out A × B =  is calculated by
calculations using matrices. Some of them might i
appear odd at first, but they are sensible rules once you combining each row of A with each column of B (see
understand the meaning of a matrix. Figure 8.2).

14 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Learning aim B UNIT 8

For A × B the element in:

Further Engineering Mathematics

2
3 2 1 ▸▸ row 1 column 1 results from combining row 1 of the
4
4 0 1 first matrix with column 1 of the second matrix
6
▸▸ row 2 column 1 results from combining row 2 of the
first matrix with column 1 of the second matrix
▸▸ Figure 8.2 To multiply two matrices together, combine each
row of the left matrix with a column of the right matrix. ▸▸ row 1 column 2 results from combining row 1 of the
first matrix with column 2 of the second matrix
Row 1 of A and column 1 of B combine to give ▸▸ row 2 column 2 results from combining row 2 of the
(a × g) + (b × h) + (c × i) = ag + bh + ci. first matrix with column 2 of the second matrix.
Row 2 of A and column 1 of B combine to give The product is
(d × g) + (e × h) + (f × i) = dg + eh + fi.

( dg + ei + fk dh + ej + fl )
ag + bi + ck ah + bj + cl

( dg + eh + fi)
ag + bh + ci AB =
So the resulting 2 × 1 matrix product is .

In this case you cannot find B × A (see Figure 8.3). Writing equations in matrix form
Suppose that, in analysing an electrical circuit, you had this

T
B  A cannot be done
pair of simultaneous equations:
(3  1) . (2  3)
2I1 + 3I2 = 12 (1)
 −3I1 + 4I2 = 8 (2)
The middle numbers
do not match
AF
▸▸ Figure 8.3 Why it isn’t possible to calculate B × A

Larger matrices can be multiplied by repeating this process

You could write them in matrix form as

(−3 4)(I2) = ( 8)
2 3 I1 12

The general matrix form of a set of simultaneous linear

for all combinations of a row from the first matrix and a equations is AX = Y
column from the second. For example:
⎛g h⎞ In this example:

(d e f )
a b c
⎜ ⎟ ▸▸ A = (
−3 4)
if A = and B = i j 2 3
− the matrix of coefficients of the variables
⎝k l ⎠
R
(I2)
then the test shows it is possible to multiply A by B (see I1
▸▸ X = − the column matrix of variables
Figure 8.4).

▸▸ Y = (
8)
12
A  B is a possible matrix − the column matrix of values on the right-
(2  3) . (3  2) hand side of the equal sign.
D

gives 2  2 matrix

▸▸ Figure 8.4 The product A × B will be a 2 × 2 matrix

Revise the rules for combining matrices, then answer these questions without
PaUSe PoINT
looking at the rules.
1 What size does a matrix need to be if you want to add it to a 2 × 4 matrix?
2 What size will the resulting matrix in question 1 be?
3 How would you multiply a matrix by 5?
4 How would you divide a matrix by 5?
5 a) Can you find the product AB if A is a 2 × 3 matrix and B is a 3 × 5 matrix?
b) If you can, what will be the size of the resulting matrix?
c) In this case can you find the product BA? If not, explain why.

15
 Solving simultaneous equations by Gaussian elimination
You have probably used elimination and substitution methods to solve simultaneous
equations. One of the difficulties you might have encountered is that each pair of
equations may be solved in a different way, depending on the values in the equations.
Gaussian elimination provides you with a standard procedure that can be applied to
any set of simultaneous linear equations. The procedure is as follows.
Step 1: Create an augmented matrix of numbers from A and Y.
Step 2: Create a triangular matrix by successively eliminating variables so that only
one variable remains in the bottom row, one more variable in the row above,
and so on up to the top row where all the variables remain.
Step 3: Read off the value of the variable in the bottom row.

( 32 3 12
4 8 ) Step 4: Substitute its value into the row above, which then allows you to calculate the
value of the second variable. Continue substituting the values of the variables
you have found into the row above, until you have reached the top row and
(−3 4)(I2) = ( 8)
2 3 I1 12 found them all.

T
In the two-equation example above, the −3 in the lower left corner has to be
▸▸ Figure 8.5 Augmented matrix for converted to a zero first, which eliminates its variable (I1) in that row (see Figure 8.5).
applying Gaussian elimination to
the system At this stage you only need to know how to solve problems with two variables.

Worked Example
AF
Solve these two simultaneous equations using Gaussian elimination.
3x + 2y = −3 (1)
5x + 3y = −4 (2)

Solution
Step 1: Write the set of equations in matrix form AX = Y, so (
3)(y) (−4)
3 2 x −3
R
 = 
5

Step 2: Merge A and Y into an augmented matrix: (

5 3 −4)
3 2 −3
D

Step 3: The aim is to get a zero in place of the element in the lower left corner, 5.
To do this, first multiply row 1 by 5 and row 2 by 3:

(5 × 3 3 × 3 −4 × 3)= ( 15 9 −12)

3 × 5 2 × 5 −3 × 5 15 10 −15

Then subtract row 2 from row 1 to get (0 1 | −3)

Replace the second row in the augmented matrix with these new values: (
0 1 −3)
3 2 −3
.

Step 4: Convert this augmented equation back to simultaneous equations:

3x + 2y = −3 (1)
0x + 1y = −3 (3)

Step 5: Equation (3) has no x variable and gives y = −3.

16 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Learning aim B UNIT 8

Further Engineering Mathematics

Step 6: Substitute this value of y into equation (1):
3x + 2(−3) = −3
3x − 6 = −3
3x = 3
x = 1
The solution is x = 1 and y = −3.
Check the answer by substituting these values back into the original equations:
3(1) + 2(−3) = −3
5(1) + 3(−3) = −4
So the solution is correct.

Write this pair of simultaneous equations in matrix form:

PaUSe PoINT
3x + 2y = 2

T
4x + y = 4
Hint Follow the worked example carefully.
Extend AF Solve the simultaneous equations by Gaussian elimination.

B2 Determinants A square matrix that does not have an inverse is called a

singular matrix. The determinant of a singular matrix is 0.
Determinant of a 2 × 2 matrix
The determinant of a matrix A can be written in a number Key terms
of ways. The most common forms are det(A) or | A |.
Determinant – a useful value calculated from the
You can calculate the determinant of a 2 × 2 matrix using a elements of a square matrix.
simple formula: Inverse of a matrix – a matrix which when multiplied
det(
c d) c d
a b a b
= | |
= ad − bc by the original matrix gives the identity (unity) matrix.
R
Unity matrix – a matrix with a 1 in each position in the
leading diagonal and 0 in every other position.
Worked Example

Find the determinant of (

4)
1 2
3 Worked Example
D

Solution

det(
4) 3 Find the inverse of A = (
3 4)
1 2 1 2 (
3
= | 4 |
= 1 × 4) − (2 × 3) = 4 − 6 = −2 1 2
.
1 2 (
det(A) =|3 4 |= 1 × 4) − (2 × 3) = −2
−2 1
−2 −3 1 ) ( __ −__)
Inverse of a 2 × 2 matrix so A −1 = ____(
1 4 −2
 =  3 1 .
You can use the determinant of a square matrix to find 2 2
the inverse of the matrix.

For a 2 × 2 matrix A = (

c d)
a b
, the inverse is given by
Solving two simultaneous equations using
A −1 = ___( d −b)
1
|A | −c a the inverse matrix
Because all elements of the matrix need to be divided You have already seen that the matrix form of a set of
by |A|, if the determinant is zero then the inverse is simultaneous equations is AX = Y, where X is the column
undefined. matrix of variables. Therefore the solution to the problem

17
 should be of the form X = …, which means that we need to Determinant of a 3 ×3 matrix
rewrite the equation AX = Y to make X the subject. To do You can find the determinant of a 3 × 3 matrix by using the
this, we would have to ‘divide both sides by A’, but there’s values in the first row and their minors. The minor of a
a slight problem − division by a matrix is not yet defined. matrix element is the determinant of the smaller matrix left
We get around this by multiplying both sides of the when you cover up the row and column of that element
equation by the inverse of A: (see Figure 8.6).
A −1 AX = A −1 Y
a b c a b c a b c
The inverse A −1 ‘cancels out’ the matrix A, so we get
X = A −1 Y
 d e f
g h i
 d e f
g h i
 d e f
g h i

1st term 2nd term 3rd term

Worked Example ▸▸ Figure 8.6 Using minors of a 3 × 3 matrix to find its
determinant
⎛a c⎞
Use an inverse matrix to find the solution to these

⎜ ⎟
b
d f
simultaneous equations considered in an earlier
For A = d e | fi | − b|g i | + c|dg he|.
f , |A| = a e

T
worked example:
⎝g h i⎠ h
3x + 2y = −3 (1)
5x + 3y = −4 (2) Worked Example

Solution

(5 3)(y) = (−4)
3 2 x −3
AF
Step 1: Write the equations in matrix form as
A system of ropes and pulleys has three ropes
under tension. The tension in each rope satisfies
these equations:
2T1 + T2 − 4T3 = 2
3T1 + T2 = 6
(1)
(2)
−4T2 + 6T3 = 1 (3)
Step 2: Calculate the determinant of A = (
5 3)
3 2 Find the determinant of the coefficient matrix.
:
3 2 ( Solution
|
5 3 |
= 3  ×  3) − (2  ×  5) = 9 − 10 = −1 
In matrix format the system of equations is
2 1 −4 ⎛T1⎞
⎜ ⎟
R
2
(0 −4 6 )⎝ ⎠ (1)
Step 3: Use the formula for A −1: 3 1 0 T2 = 6 .
T3
A −1 = ____  (
3 ) ( 5 −3)
1 3 −2 −3 2
= 2 1 −4
(0 −4 6 )
−1 −5
The coefficient matrix is A = 3 1 0 .
D

Step 4: Calculate X = A−1Y:

Then
X=(
5 −3)(−4)
−3 2 −3

First, check if the multiplication is possible.

|A | =2 |−41 06| − 1|30 06| + (−4)|30
1
−4 |
The matrices being multiplied are 2 × 2 and 2 × 1. = 2(1 × 6 − 0 × (−4)) − 1(3 × 6 − 0 × 0) 
The middle numbers agree, so you can multiply. + (−4)(3 × (−4) − 1 × 0)
Combine each row of A with the column matrix Y: = 12 − 18 + 48 = 42

X=(
5 × (−3) + (−3) × (−4)) (−3)
(−3) × (−3) + 2 × (−4) 1
=
Cramer’s rule
So the solution to the simultaneous equations is Cramer’s rule is a way of solving multiple simultaneous
x = 1 and y = −3. equations using determinants. Consider this pair of
This agrees with the answer obtained using simultaneous equations:
Gaussian elimination. a1 x + b1 y = c1
a2 x + b2 y = c2

18 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Learning aim B UNIT 8

First write the equations in matrix form:

Further Engineering Mathematics

(a2 b2)(y) (c2)
a1 b1 x c1
=

Make three determinants:

a1 b1 c1 b1 a1 c1
|D | =  
|a2 b2 |
|D1| =
c2 b2 | | |
|D2| =   a
2 c2 |
|D1| |D2|
Then the solution is given by x = ____  and y = ____ provided that |D | is not equal to zero.
|D | |D |

Worked Example
Find the currents, i1 and i2 in the circuit shown in Figure 8.7.
Solution 100R 120R
Using Kirchhoff’s current rule, the circuit

T
gives the equations
300i1 − 200 i2 = 10
−200i1 + 320 i2 = −20 10V i1 i2 20V
AF 200R

▸▸ Figure 8.7 Circuit diagram

Step 1: Write the equations in matrix form

(−200 320) (i2) = (−20)

300 −200 i1 10
R
Step 2: To apply Cramer’s rule, form and calculate three determinants
300 −200
|D| = |−200 320 |
= 300 × 320 − (−200) × (−200) = 96 000 − 40 000 = 56 000
D

| D1 | = 10 −200 = 10 × 320 − (−200) × (−20) = 3200 − 4000 = −800

| |
−20 320

| D2 | = 300
| 10
|
= 300 × (−20) − 10 × (−200) = −6000 + 2000 = −4000
−200 20

Step 3: Find i1 and i2.

|D1| −800 |D2| −4000
i1 = ____ = ________ = −0.014 A (to 3 d.p.) and i2 = ____ = ________ = −0.071 A (to 3 d.p.).
|D | 56 000 |D | 56 000
The negative answers mean that the current flows in the opposite direction to the one chosen (that is, the
current flows anti-clockwise).

19
 a) Write this pair of simultaneous equations in matrix form AX = Y.
PaUSe PoINT
2 T1 + 3 T2  = 11
T1 − 2 T2  = 2
b) Calculate the determinant of matrix A, |A| and its inverse, A−1.
Hint Use the worked examples to help you answer the questions. Try to repeat the steps
of the solutions without looking at the examples.
Extend Solve the simultaneous equations using the inverse matrix and using Cramer’s rule.
Compare the two methods.

Assessment practice 8.2

Use these matrices to answer questions 1−3 below. Plan
A=(
3 −1)
1 2 • What techniques will I need to use to
complete the task? How am I going to

T
B=(
5 3)
6 −1 approach each problem and keep track of my
progress?
C=( )
−1 • How confident do I feel in my abilities to
1 complete this task?
5 6 4
(−1 0 0)
• Are there any areas I think I may struggle
D = −3 2

E = (1 3 2)
1
AF
1 Find the value of each matrix expression. Give a reason if
Do
with?

• I know what strategies I could employ for the

task. I can determine whether these are right
the operation is not possible. for the task.
a) A + B b) B + A c) 2B • I can assess whether my approach is working
d) AC e) DE f) ED and, if not, what changes I need to make.
• I can identify when I’ve gone wrong and
2 Calculate the determinant of:
adjust my thinking/approach to get myself
a) A b) C c) D
R
back on course.
3 Calculate the inverse of: Review
a) B b) D c) E • I can evaluate whether I have solved each
4 The following equations were obtained by applying problem correctly.
Kirchhoff’s current rule to a circuit: • I have compared the different methods and
D

7 i1 + 9 i2 = 3 can assess which method is more suitable for

which type of problem.
5 i1 + 7 i2 = 1
• I can identify the elements in the task that
where i1 and i2 represent the currents in separate branches. are difficult for me and explain how I would
Find the values of i1 and i2using approach them differently next time.
a) Gaussian elimination
b) the inverse matrix method
c) Cramer’s rule.
5 Use matrix and determinant methods to solve these
simultaneous equations describing a mechanical system.
2 T1 + 3 T2 − T3 = 53
T1 − 2 T2 + 3 T3 = 16
T2 + T3 = 27
Compare the answers and the methods.

20 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Learning aim C UNIT 8

Examine how complex numbers can be used

Further Engineering Mathematics

C to solve engineering problems
Key term

C1 Complex numbers Complex number – a

number that has the format
Complex numbers extend the range of numbers from positive and negative values on a ± jb. The ‘complex operator’
the number line to two dimensions. Any complex number can be written as a ± jb, or ‘imaginary unit’ j satisfies
where a is the horizontal component along the familiar number line (called the the equation j 2 = −1.
real part) and b is the vertical component along a perpendicular direction (called
the imaginary part). The symbol j indicates the ‘imaginary’ component. (Note:
mathematicians use ‘i’ for the imaginary unit, but engineers use ‘j’ to avoid confusion Link
with the symbol for electric current.)
Phasors are discussed in
Complex numbers make it convenient to perform mathematical operations with Unit 1, in the sections
phasor quantities. A phasor is a rotating vector. The instantaneous value of a sine ‘a2 Trigonometric

T
wave at any point is equal to the vertical distance from the tip of the phasor to the methods’ and ‘G Single-
horizontal axis (see Figure 8.8). phase alternating current’.

90°

135°
AF
45°

0°
180°

225° 270° 315° 360°

180°
360° 0° 45° 90° 135° θ

315°
225°
R
270°

▸▸ Figure 8.8 Relationship between a phasor (rotating vector) and a sine wave

A phasor that starts at the 3 o’clock position and rotates anti-clockwise represents the
sine wave y = R sin (ωt), where R is the length of the phasor and ω = 2πf (rad s−1) is the
D

angular speed (here f is the frequency of the sine wave oscillation in units of Hz).
A phasor that starts at the 12 o’clock position represents the function y = R cos (ωt),
where R and ω have the same meanings as above.
π π
Because 90° is __  radians, you can see that R cos (ωt) = R sin(ωt +  __)  .
2 2
Look at the two waves A and B and their phasor representations in Figure 8.9.

21
 a) A In particular, a phasor with rectangular form a + jb has
________
▸▸ modulus |a + jb| = √a  2 + b 2

▸▸ argument arg(a + jb) = tan −1(__).

b
a
B
θ The complex number system lets you add, subtract,
0°
30° multiply and divide phasor quantities that have both
magnitude and angle (see the section on complex number
arithmetic below).

90°
Numbers on the complex plane
b)
If you plot complex numbers on a set of perpendicular
B axes (the complex plane), you get an argand diagram (see
Figure 8.11).
30° A 1j
180° 0°

24 1 j4

T
1 1 j2
270°
AF
▸▸ Figure 8.9 (a) Wave B is a phase-shifted version of the sine
wave A. (b) The corresponding phasor B makes an angle of 30°
with phasor A
π
In Figure 8.9 the phasor B leads the phasor A by 30°, or __  
6
5 2 j3

radians. We know the equation for A is y = R sin (ωt).

22 2 j6 2j
The equation for B is y = R sin(ωt + __)  .
π
6 Rectanglar notation
A phasor can be written in a number of ways. The most
1j
common forms are the following:
R
▸▸ polar notation − where the magnitude (also called 5∠120°
the modulus) R and the phase angle (also called the 120°
argument) θ are together expressed as R∠θ
2∠45°
▸▸ rectangular (or Cartesian) notation − where the
45°
phasor is resolved into horizontal (a) and vertical (b)
D

components to give a + jb. 230°

2110°
Figure 8.10 shows how to convert between these two
forms of notation. 4∠2110° 8∠230°

2j
Polar notation

R b ▸▸ Figure 8.11 Two examples of Argand diagrams

The j operator is associated with the vertical component of

the phasor. It represents an anti-clockwise phase shift of
θ π
90° or __  rad. A j shift followed by another j shift gives j2,
a 2
which is equivalent to a 180° phase shift. This corresponds
▸▸ Figure 8.10 Conversion between polar and rectangular forms to the wave being inverted, or multiplied by −1. Therefore j
of representing a phasor satisfies the equation j2 = −1.

22 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Learning aim C UNIT 8

Complex number arithmetic   ∠(tan ) 

___
3

Further Engineering Mathematics

√
13 −1 __ ___

( 4)
(2 + j3) 2  
√13 3 5
addition and subtraction So _______ =  ________________ = _____
___ ∠ tan −1 __ − tan −1 __

  ∠(tan
4 )
___
(4 + j5) √41 5
__  
√41 2
You add (or subtract) the ‘real’ and ‘imaginary’ parts of an −1  
imaginary number separately. For example: = 0.563∠0.0867 rad 
(2 + j3) + (4 + j5) = (2 + 4) + (j3 + j5) = 6 + j8
Converting this back to rectangular notation (using
(1 − j2) − (3 + j4) = (1 − 3) + (−j2 − j4) = −2 − j6 unrounded values) gives
Multiplication (2 + j3
)
_______ = 0.563 cos(0.0867) + j sin(0.0867)
You can multiply in rectangular notation the same way as (4 + j5)
multiplying two binomial terms, using FOIL. For example: = 0.56 + j0.05 (to 2 d.p.)
(2 + j3)(4 + j5) = 8 + j10 + j12 + j 2 15 = 8 + j22 + j 2 15
Research
But you know that j 2 = −1, so the last term becomes −15.
Therefore Most scientific calculators have polar-to-rectangular
(2 + j3)(4 + j5) = 8 + j22 + j 2 15 = 8 + j22 − 15  = −7 + j22  and rectangular-to-polar conversion functions.
Find out how to carry out these functions on your

T
You can also multiply two complex numbers in polar
calculator, and practise using them.
notation. To do this, multiply the magnitudes and add the
phase angles. For example:

   ∠(tan −1 __ )r ad
___
3 Raising to a power
2 + j3 = √13
2 Raising a complex number to a power n is easy to do in
   ∠(tan −1 )r ad
___
4 + j5 = √41
5
__
4
___ ___
  √41
So (2 + j3)(4 + j5) = √13    ∠ (
AF3
tan −1 __
2
+
4)
5
tan −1 __
polar notation using de Moivre’s theorem:
(R∠θ ) n = R n∠nθ

In other words, raise the magnitude to the power n and

= 23.09 ∠1.8788 rad multiply the phase angle by n.

Converting this back to rectangular notation (using

unrounded values) gives Worked Example
23.09 cos(1.8788) + j 23.09sin(1.8788) = −7 + j22
An electrical circuit has an inductive reactance
R
Division of (3 + j4) Ω connected in series with a capacitive
To divide two complex numbers in rectangular notation, reactance of (0 − j2) Ω and a resistor of (15 + j0) Ω.
you write the division as a fraction and then multiply both Calculate the total impedance and the current
π
numerator and denominator by the complex conjugate flowing in the circuit if the voltage is V = 12∠__  rad.
3
of the denominator. Solution
D

A complex number and its complex conjugate have the The total impedance is Z = (3 + j4) + (0 − j2) + (15 + j0)
same real and imaginary parts, except that the j terms V
= (18 + j2) Ω. The current in the circuit is i = __ .
have opposite signs. In other words, a + jb and a − jb are Z
complex conjugates of each other. Multiplying a pair of To do the division, you can convert Z to polar
complex conjugates gives a real number: (a + jb)(a − jb) = notation:
  2 + 2 2  ∠(tan −1 ___)
_________
2
a 2 − jab + jba − j 2 b 2 = a 2 + b 2. 18 + j2 = √18
18
For example, to divide (2 + j3) by (4 + j5) using complex = 18.11∠0.1107 rad
conjugates: π
12 ∠__  
π
so i = ________________ = _______ ∠(__  − 0.1107)
2 + j3
( ( 2 + j3 4 − j5
)( ) _____________________
) ______________ 8 − j10 + j12 − j 2 15 3 12
_______ = = 18.11∠0.1107 18.11 3
(4 + j5) (4 + j5)(4 − j5) 16 − j20 + j20 − j 2 25
= 0.663∠0.9365 rad.
8 + j2 + 15 23 + j2 23 2
= ___________ = ________ = ___ + j ___ The current is 0.663 A at a phase angle of 0.9365 rad.
16 + 25 41 41 41
This can also be written as i = 0.663 sin (ωt + 0.9365).
You can also divide in polar notation: simply divide the
magnitudes and subtract the phase angles.

23
 Assessment practice 8.3
Answer the following questions involving complex numbers. It is Plan
important that you show all the steps in your calculations clearly. • What techniques will I need to use to
You also need to give a brief explanation of each step. complete the task? How am I going to
1 You are given the complex numbers approach each problem and keep track
z1 = 3 + j and z2 = 4 − j of my progress?
a) Plot z1 and z2 on an Argand diagram. • How confident do I feel in my abilities
b) Calculate the following: to complete this task?
• Are there any areas I think I may
i) the sum z1 + z2
struggle with?
ii) the conjugate of z1
Do
iii) the conjugate of z2
• I know what strategies I could employ
iv) the product z1z2 in rectangular form for the task. I can determine whether
v) z1 and z2 in polar form these are right for the task.
vi) the product z1z2 in polar form • I can assess whether my approach is

T
vii) (z2)4 in polar form using de Moivre’s theorem working and, if not, what changes I need
viii) (z1)3 in polar form using de Moivre’s theorem to make.
z1 • I can identify when I’ve gone wrong
ix) the quotient ___ z2 in rectangular form and adjust my thinking/approach to get
z1 AF myself back on course.
x) the quotient ___ z2 in polar form.
Review
2 Two circuits are connected in series. The impedances of the • I can evaluate whether I have solved
circuits are z1 = 50 + j3 and z2 = 20 − j2, and the supply voltage is each problem correctly.
v = 100 + 5j. • I have compared the different methods
a) Calculate: and can assess which method is more
i) the total impedance z T = z1 + z2 suitable for which type of problem.
v • I can identify the elements in the task
ii) the current flowing in the circuit, i = ___
zT that are difficult for me and explain how
b) What is the amplitude of the current?
I would approach them differently next
R
c) What is the phase angle of the current? time.

Investigate how statistical and probability techniques

D can be used to solve engineering problems
D

Key term
The distribution of values of D1 Statistical techniques
a variable can be displayed Data can be gathered from many sources. It can be classified as discrete or
graphically for example as continuous.
a histogram or pie-chart. A ▸▸ Data is said to be discrete if it can take on values from a specific set of numbers.
probability distribution For example:
plots the probability of a • The number of people living in a house can be 0, 1, 2, 3, … but not, say, 2.4 or 3.5.
given value against the range • The number of cars produced in a factory in a week must be a positive whole
of values instead of the actual number or zero.
number. A very common
▸▸ Data is said to be continuous if it can take on any value within a range. Continuous
distribution is known as the
data usually comes from measurements. Examples include:
normal distribution. A normal
• the diameter of a spindle turned on a lathe
distribution gives a bell-
• the volume of liquid in a container.
shaped curve, symmetrical
about the mean.

24 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Learning aim D UNIT 8

Measures of central tendency (averages) A pie chart (Figure 8.12a) is a useful way of comparing

Further Engineering Mathematics

When you analyse experimental data, it is useful to look relative sizes of data in specific categories, for example, the
for a single number that typifies the data − the average number of different types of industry in an area.
value of the data. There are three important averages that A bar chart (Figure 8.12b) is an alternative way of
are often used: displaying values of similar types of data to pie charts.
▸▸ arithmetic mean − defined as A histogram looks similar to a bar chart, but is used for
sum of all the data values
______________________________________ displaying the frequency of grouped data. It displays the
. This can be
number of data items in the sample spread of values, for example, the number of components
i=n
∑  xi within a range of measured values (see the worked
i=1
expressed mathematically as x  = _______
̅ n example below).
▸▸ median − the middle value of the data when all the
a) Types of Engineering Industry
values are placed in order from lowest to highest. To
find the middle position, add 1 to the number of data Process
Engineering Electronic
items in the sample and divide by 2. Engineering
11%
▸▸ mode − the data value that occurs most often. If more 15%

T
than one value occurs the same number of times, the Electrical
data is said to be multi-modal. Engineering
11%
Raw data is ungrouped. For example, if the number of Light
components produced per hour is measured over ten
AF Heavy Engineering
hours and recorded as 10, 11, 10, 9, 12, 11, 10, 10, 9, 11, this Engineering 45%
is ungrouped data. 7%
This small amount of data can be analysed quite simply:
b) Types of Engineering Industry
10 + 11 + 10 + 9 + 12 + 11 + 10 + 10 + 9 + 11 14
mean = _____________________________________________ = 10.3
Number of companies

10 12
To find the median, first write the numbers in order: 10
9, 9, 10, 10, 10, 10, 11, 11, 11, 12 8
6
In this case the median is halfway between the fifth and sixth
R
values. These numbers are both 10, so the median is 10. 4
2
To find the mode, tally the values as in Table 8.4.
0
Engineering

Engineering

Engineering

Engineering

Engineering
Electronic

▸▸ Table 8.4 Tally chart to make a frequency table Electrical

Process
Heavy
Light

Value Tally Frequency

D

9 // 2
10 //// 4
▸▸ Figure 8.12 Graphical representations of data: a) a pie chart,
11 /// 3
and b) a bar chart
12 / 1

The value 10 occurs most frequently, so the mode is 10. Research

Tallying the data when it is collected can make analysis Revise the different ways of representing data as
simpler, especially for large sets of data. The data in • pie charts
the tally chart is already ordered, which also helps in • bar charts
identifying the median. • histograms
Graphical representation of data • cumulative frequency diagrams.
Tables of data contain numerical values, but patterns and Make sure you understand the difference between bar
relationships are not always easy to find. Graphical and charts and histograms.
other visual methods allow you to see potential patterns
without the need for calculations.

25
 Worked Example
Consider the data presented above:
10, 11, 10, 9, 12, 11, 10, 10, 9, 11
Calculate the mean of the data using a frequency table.
▸▸ Table 8.5 Frequency table
Solution
∑ xf x f xf
The mean is x ̅ =   _____, where
∑f 9 2 18
• f is the frequency of each distinct value taken by the data 10 4 40
• ∑ f = N is the number of data items in the sample 11 3 33
• xf is the contribution of each value x to the total 12 1 12
• ∑ xf is the sum of all the contributions, that is, the total of all the Σf = 10 Σxf = 103
data values. ∑ xf
Mean, x ̅ = _____ = 10.3
Tabulate these values as in Table 8.5, and then use the formula to

T
∑f
calculate the mean.

Grouped data

Key terms
AF
Larger sets of data are more easily analysed if they are grouped.

Classes – the groups into which the data is organised.

Lower class boundary (lcb) − the lowest value of the class.
Upper class boundary (ucb) − the highest value of the class.
Class width − the difference between ucb and lcb.
Midpoint − median of the class.
R
Worked Example
A machine is set to produce bolts with nominal diameter 25.00 mm. A random sample of 60 bolts is measured and
D

provides the frequency distribution in Table 8.6.

a) Calculate the mean diameter.
b) Draw a histogram of the data and mark the upper and lower class boundaries for the second class.

▸▸ Table 8.6 Frequency distribution of bolt diameter

Diameter (x) Frequency (f )

23.3−23.7 2
23.8−24.2 4
24.3−24.7 10
24.8−25.2 17
25.3−25.7 16
25.8−26.2 8
26.3−26.7 3

26 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Learning aim D UNIT 8

Further Engineering Mathematics

Solution
a) The data is continuous. Expand the frequency table to show the lcb, ucb and midpoint of each class (see Table 8.7).
Note that the ucb of the first class is the lcb of the second class, and so on. Averaging the lcb and ucb for each class
gives the midpoint of that class.
The midpoint will be used to represent each class in the calculation of the mean.
▸▸ Table 8.7 Calculation of the mean using the midpoint values
Diameter, x Frequency, f lcb ucb Midpoint, xmid xmidf
23.3−23.7 2 23.25 23.75 23.50 47
23.8−24.2 4 23.75 24.25 24.00 96
24.3−24.7 10 24.25 24.75 24.50 245
24.8−25.2 17 24.75 25.25 25.00 425
25.3−25.7 16 25.25 25.75 25.50 408
25.8−26.2 8 25.75 26.25 26.00 208
26.3−26.7 3 26.25 26.75 26.50 79.5

T
Σf = 60 Σxf = 1508.5
∑ xf
Mean, x ̅ = _____ = 25.14
∑f
The mean diameter of the bolts is 25.14 mm.
AF lcb ucb
b) Using the information in Table 8.7, plot a histogram width
18
as in Figure 8.13.
16
14
Frequency

12
10
8
6
4
R
2
0
23.50 24.00 24.50 25.00 25.50 26.00 26.50
Radius
▸▸ Figure 8.13 Histogram of the bolt diameter data
D

A cumulative frequency graph shows the cumulative total frequency up to each of

the class boundaries. For example, Table 8.8 shows grouped data on the marks gained
in a mathematics test.
▸▸ Table 8.8 Frequency table for marks gained in a mathematics test

Marks Number of learners (frequency) Cumulative frequency

11−20 2 2 2
21−30 11 2 + 11 13
31−40 19 13 + 19 32
41−50 36 32 + 36 68
51−60 42 68 + 42 110
61−70 31 110 + 31 141
71−80 13 141 + 13 154
81−90 6 154 + 6 160

27
 The cumulative frequency graph is shown in Figure 8.14. At each ucb value along the
horizontal axis, the cumulative frequency up to that point is plotted on the vertical axis.

180
160
140
upper quartile

Frequency
120
100
median
80
60
lower quartile
40
20
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
Inter-quartile range

▸▸ Figure 8.14 Cumulative frequency graph of the mathematics test marks

T
Because the final cumulative frequency value is 160, the total number of learners who
took the test was 160. So if all the marks were ordered from lowest to highest, the
median mark would be around the 80th value. To obtain the median mark from the
AF cumulative frequency graph, find 80 on the vertical axis, draw a horizontal line across
to the curve followed by a vertical line down to the horizontal axis, and then read off
the value on the horizontal axis.
The lower quartile is one-quarter of the way up the ordered list of marks (around the
40th), and the upper quartile is three-quarters of the way up (around the 120th). The
inter-quartile range is the difference between the upper and lower quartiles and
gives a measure of the spread of data values.
The frequency scale can be split up in other ways than into quartiles. For example,
the range can be divided into 100 equal steps called percentiles. These can be used to
calculate the inter-percentile range. The range between the 75th and 100th percentiles
R
is equivalent to the upper quartile.

Measures of dispersion (spread)

If you were manufacturing components, ideally you would want
99.7%
them all to be the same. You know, however, that there will always
D

95.4% be some variation. The variation is likely to follow a ‘normal’ or ‘bell-

68.2% curve’ distribution about the mean (see Figure 8.15). Many things
follow a normal distribution, for example, heights of people.
The average variation from the mean will be zero, because in
general you expect there to be as many values above the mean
as there are below it. You can calculate a useful measure of the
variation by first squaring all the differences from the mean to
make the values positive, and then averaging them. The resulting
value is called the variance:
i=n
∑    (x ̅ − xi) 2
i=1
______________
variance = n
23 22 21 0 1 2 3 The square root of the variance is called the standard deviation.
Mean It is usually written as σ (lower-case Greek letter sigma).
______________

√ 
Standard deviation i=n
∑    (x ̅ − xi) 2
________
standard deviation = σ = √variance 
i=1
▸▸ Figure 8.15 Standard normal deviation   = ______________ n

28 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Learning aim D UNIT 8

Further Engineering Mathematics

Worked Example
Calculate the variance and standard deviation of the bolt diameters in the previous worked example.

Solution
Step 1: Calculate the mean. In the previous worked example you found this to be 25.14 mm.

Step 2: For each data value (the midpoint of each class in this case), calculate its deviation from the mean, (x ̅ − xi).
Then square each answer to get (x ̅ − xi) 2.

Step 3: To find the average of these values (x ̅ − xi) 2, multiply each one by the corresponding frequency.
The calculation results from steps 2 and 3 are summarised in Table 8.9.
▸▸ Table 8.9 Expanded frequency table for calculating the variance

Diameter, x Frequency, f xmid = x i (x̅ − x i) (x̅ − x i)2 (x̅ − x i) 2 f

T
23.3−23.7 2 23.50 1.64 2.6896 5.3792
23.8−24.2 4 24.00 1.14 1.2996 5.1984
24.3−24.7 10 AF 24.50 0.64 0.4096 4.096
24.8−25.2 17 25.00 0.14 0.0196 0.3332
25.3−25.7 16 25.50 −0.36 0.1296 2.0736
25.8−26.2 8 26.00 −0.86 0.7396 5.9168
26.3−26.7 3 26.50 −1.36 1.8496 5.5488

Σf = 60 Σ(x ̅ − xi) 2 f = 28.546

Step 4: Calculate the variance using the formula

∑ i=n (x ̅ −  xi) 2
R
i=1
______________ 28.546
n = ________ = 0.4758
60

Step 5: Take the square root to find the standard deviation:

_______
σ = √variance
  = 0.6898
D

Scatter diagrams
A scatter diagram (XY plot) is used to visualise the relationship between two sets
of data. The independent variable is plotted on the horizontal (X) axis, and the
dependent variable on the vertical (Y) axis (see Figure 8.16).

25.0 Research
Extension (mm)

20.0
Investigate probability
15.0 distributions, and in particular
10.0 the ‘normal’ distribution.
5.0 Find out how the standard
0.0 normal distribution curve
0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 30.0
can be used to predict the
Force (kN)
percentage of population in a
▸▸ Figure 8.16 Scatter diagram given range.

29
 In this case the plotted points appear 300
to show that the extension increases as y = 9.5536x2 + 2.0893x – 1.9643
250
R2 = 0.9976
the applied force increases. However, 200

Energy ( J)
you can see that the points do not 150
fit exactly on a straight line, but the 100
values are scattered closely about 50
one, with some further away from the 0
straight line than others. 1 2 3 4 5 6
250
Angular velocity (rad/s)
Linear regression (line of best fit)
When you take measurements, there is always a
degree of tolerance. This means that in a practical ▸▸ Figure 8.17 Using a
situation involving measurements of two variables spreadsheet to plot
(one independent and one dependent), even when the regression lines
dependent variable is known to be directly proportional to
the independent variable, it is unlikely that the data points The data in Figure 8.17 represents an experiment to relate

T
will lie exactly on a straight line. If you expect a linear the rotational energy in a flywheel to its angular velocity.
relationship between the variables, you could plot the data Theory says that the relationship is E = __12 I ω 2. A linear
points and try to draw a line ‘by eye’ that best describes trendline clearly does not match the data as you might
the relationship − for example, you could draw a line that expect. The polynomial trendline gives a much better fit.
The spreadsheet displays the equation of the regression
AF
has as many data points below as above it.

An alternative to such a ‘hit-or-miss’ method of fitting data

is to use a statistical analysis tool. The linear regression
model generates an equation of the form y = mx + c to fit
the data. The values of m and c are given by
line and the R-squared value that gives a measure of how
well the data fits the mathematical model (equation).
A value of 1 is a perfect fit. The regression line is close, but
does not quite match the theoretical value. The benefit of
using a software application is that other types of trendline
N ∑ xy  − ∑ x ∑ y can easily be tried to find a line of best fit.
m = ___________________   and  c = y̅ − mx ̅
N ∑ x 2 − (∑ x) 2 Most graphical calculators and spreadsheet programs can
calculate the linear regression line and the correlation
where N is the number of pairs of measurements, y̅ is
coefficient. Figure 8.18 shows the regression line
R
the mean of the data values for the dependent variable
calculated for the worked example data using Microsoft®
and x̅ is the mean of the data values for the independent
Excel.
variable.

A statistical quantity that measures how well the regression y

25.0 y 5 0.7996x 10.8726
line fits the data is the (Pearson’s) correlation coefficient.
R23 5 0.9778
D

This is given by the formula 20.0

15.0
N ∑ xy  − ∑ x ∑ y
r = ___________________________
______________ ______________ 10.0
√N
  ∑ x −   (∑ x) 2   √N
2   ∑ y 2 −   (∑ y) 2 5.0
and produces a value between −1 and +1 that indicates 0.0 x
0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 30.0
the degree of correlation between the variables: +1 means
total positive correlation, 0 means no correlation and −1 ▸▸ Figure 8.18 Calculated regression line for sample data
means total negative correlation.

Linear regression is a very useful tool to determine a Research

relationship between the variables. However, not all
relationships are linear. You can use a spreadsheet, such as Investigate how to use your graphical calculator or
Microsoft® Excel to investigate other potential relationships a spreadsheet such as Microsoft® Excel to find the
that fit the plotted points, such as exponential, logarithmic regression line and correlation coefficient for a set of
etc. (see Figure 8.17). data.

30 Further Engineering Mathematics

 Learning aim D UNIT 8

Further Engineering Mathematics

Worked Example
The data in Table 8.10 was obtained during a tensile Now apply the formulae for the regression line:
test of a steel specimen. The values are plotted as N ∑ xy − ∑ x ∑ y _________________________
6(1526.7) − (93.5)(80.0)
a scatter diagram in Figure 8.16. Assuming a linear m = ___________________ =
N ∑ x − (∑ x)
2 2 6(1807.25) − (93.5) 2
relationship, determine the regression line of extension
on force and calculate the regression coefficient, = 0.7996
explaining what the value means. ∑ x 93.5
x ̅ = _____ = ______ = 15.583
N 6
▸▸ Table 8.10 Measurements of tension and extension in a
tensile test ∑ y 80.0
y̅ = _____ = ______ = 13.333 
N 6
Tension (kN) extension (mm)
4.5 3.8
c = y̅ − mx ̅ = 13.333 − (0.7996)(15.583) = 0.873
9.0 8.9 So the equation of the regression line is y = 0.8x + 0.87.
13.0 10.4 The regression coefficient is

T
18.0 16.0 N ∑ xy − ∑ x ∑ y
r = ___________________________
______________ ______________
22.0 19.6 √N
  ∑ x − (∑ x) 2   √N
2   ∑ y 2 − (∑ y) 2
27.0 21.3
6(1526.7) − (93.5)(80.0)
= _________________________________
_________________ _________________ = 0.989
Solution AF √6  (1807.3) − (93.5) 2    √6  (1295.7) − (80.0) 2
Make a table (like Table 8.11) to calculate each of the
This is a positive value close to 1, so there is strong
terms in the regression line formulae.
positive correlation between the two variables and the
▸▸ Table 8.11 Table for calculating the regression line linear regression equation is a good fit to the data.
Tension (kN) extension (mm)
x y x2 y2 xy
4.5 3.8 20.25 14.44 17.1
9.0 8.9 81.00 79.21 80.1
13.0 10.4 169.00 108.16 135.2
R
18.0 16.0 324.00 256.00 288
22.0 19.6 484.00 384.16 431.2
27.0 21.3 729.00 453.69 575.1
Σx = 93.5 Σy = 80 Σx2 = 1807.25 Σy2 = 1295.66 Σxy = 1526.7
D

Statistical investigation
Inspection and quality assurance, calculation of central Plan: In the plan stage you identify details such as the
tendencies and dispersion, forecasting, reliability estimates sample size, how the data is to be gathered and recorded.
for components and systems, customer behaviour, condition Data: The data stage is concerned with how you organise
monitoring and product performance are all examples of and manage the data. Tables and tally sheets are typical
engineering applications that rely upon the application of tools for clearly recording data so it can be manipulated.
statistical techniques. The best way to understand them is to
Analysis: In the analysis stage you explore the data,
carry out a statistical investigation of your own.
looking for relationships in grouped/ungrouped data,
A common approach to carrying out a statistical using graphical and analytical methods to identify central
investigation follows the Problem−Plan−Data−Analysis− tendencies, dispersion (spread) and rogue values.
Conclusion (PPDAC) cycle.
Conclusions: The conclusions should relate back to the
Problem: In the problem stage you need to formulate the initial problem. You need to include statistical vocabulary
question to be answered, identifying what data to collect, where appropriate, for example, scatter plot, histogram,
why it is important, where and how to collect it. mean and standard deviation.

31
 Assessment practice 8.4
Solve the following problems involving statistical and probability techniques. Plan
It is important that you show all the steps in your calculations clearly. You also • What techniques will I need
need to give a brief explanation of each step. to use to complete the task?
1 You measured the masses of 50 metal castings in kilograms and noted the How am I going to approach
results: each problem and keep track
4.6 4.7 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.4 4.8 4.3 4.2 4.8 of my progress?
4.7 4.5 4.7 4.4 4.5 4.5 4.6 4.4 4.6 4.6 • How confident do I feel in my
4.8 4.3 4.8 4.5 4.5 4.6 4.6 4.7 4.6 4.7 abilities to complete this task?
4.4 4.6 4.5 4.4 4.3 4.7 4.7 4.6 4.6 4.8 • Are there any areas I think I
4.9 4.4 4.5 4.7 4.4 4.5 4.9 4.7 4.5 4.6 may struggle with?
Do
a) Arrange the data in eight equal classes between 4.2 and 4.9 kilograms.
• I know what strategies I could
b) Determine the frequency distribution. employ for the task. I can
c) Draw the frequency histogram. determine whether these are

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d) Is the data normally distributed? right for the task.
• I can assess whether my
e) Calculate the mean and standard deviation of the masses.
approach is working and, if
f) Calculate the upper and lower quartile values. not, what changes I need to
g) Calculate the inter-quartile range. make.
AF
2 The data in Table 8.12 results from an experiment you carried out to
determine the relationship between frequency and the inductive reactance
for an electrical circuit.
• I can identify when I’ve
gone wrong and adjust my
thinking/approach to get
myself back on course.
▸▸ Table 8.12 Data on frequency and inductive reactance
Review
Frequency, • I can evaluate whether I
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
f (kHz) have solved each problem
Inductive correctly.
reactance, 30 65 90 130 150 190 200 255 270 • I have compared the different
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XL (Ω) methods and can assess
a) Draw a scatter graph for this data. which method is more
suitable for which type of
b) What does the scatter graph tell you?
problem.
c) Estimate the inductive reactance for a frequency of 32 kHz from the graph. • I can identify the elements in
D

d) Calculate the line of regression of inductive reactance on frequency (y on x). the task that are difficult for
e) Calculate the regression coefficient. me and explain how I would
approach them differently
f) What does the regression coefficient indicate?
next time.
g) Use the equation for the line of regression to predict the inductive
reactance for a frequency of 32 kHz.
h) Compare the calculated value with the value that you read from the graph.

Further reading and resources

Websites
Maths is Fun: www.mathsisfun.com
A lot of useful skills and knowledge organised into categories that are easy to find.
mathcentre: www.mathcentre.ac.uk/students/topics
A set of resources split into topics designed to support self-study.

32 Further Engineering Mathematics

 UNIT 8 UNIT 8

Further Engineering Mathematics

THINK
FUTURE
I’ve been working in the engineering industry for 29 years. Throughout this time the
Sean Spilsbury industry has never stood still and it continues to develop new technologies across all

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engineering sectors. I believe that design is at the heart of all engineering.
Design engineer A design engineer realises ideas and brings to life new products or processes, from
customer requirements, through concept, prototype, final design and tests, to
manufacture, commission and disposal. Mathematical modelling and simulation are
important ways of testing out new ideas before constructing expensive projects, so the
AF design engineer has to have well-developed mathematical skills. The design engineer
plays a pivotal role in an extremely diverse range of industries. You have many different
and interesting sectors to choose from − including mechanical, electrical and electronic,
aerospace, marine, oil and gas, nuclear and renewables (such as wind turbines, solar
power) − and new areas are developing all the time.
One thing is for sure − it’s important to look for a company and position where you will
continue to learn and be challenged in an environment that supports your development.
In engineering, every day is a school day and rarely are two days the same. Working
in a challenging environment will not only keep you interested while developing your
knowledge and competencies, but also be extremely rewarding both professionally and
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financially. Engineers are sought after the world over, and if you have a desire to work in
different parts of the world, then working in this industry provides plenty of opportunities.
When working in engineering design, you will be participating in an industry that is
shaping the world we live in.

Focusing your skills

D

Using mathematical skills to solve engineering problems

It is important to be able to apply mathematical methods to solve engineering problems. Here are some simple tips to help you do this.
• Gather all the information you can to understand the nature of the problem − for example, inspection and quality assurance,
calculation of central tendencies and dispersion, forecasting, reliability estimates for components and systems, customer behaviour,
condition monitoring and product performance.
• Use critical thinking when extracting information from the text of the problem.
• Identify appropriate mathematical methods to solve the given engineering problem.
• Be confident in the mathematical skills you need to use, such as arithmetic, algebraic, statistical, estimation and approximation
techniques.
• Practise the skills to build confidence.
• Develop a plan to solve a problem.
• Critically analyse the solution obtained.
• Reflect on the problem-solving process and the solution obtained, and make refinements if necessary.
• Repeat the process until you are happy with the outcome.
• Present and explain the solution to the given engineering problem.

33 33
UNIT 8

Getting ready for assessment

Abbie is working towards a BTEC National in Engineering. She was revising for a
time-constrained assignment for Learning aim A. She knew that in the assignment
she would have to solve engineering problems using the techniques specified in the
Learning aim. This was her experience.

How I got started What I learned from the experience

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First I collected all my notes on this topic and put them I was pretty sure that I knew how to answer the
into a folder. I decided to divide my work into sub- questions, but I was worried that I would not understand
topics because I felt it would be easier to revise them them. I think it helped to use questions from different
individually. I used textbooks and the internet to identify places for practice because they did not all use the same
worked examples of typical questions to help revise words, so I got used to having to work out what to do.
AF
the information. I started with problems that used the
main skills, such as identifying arithmetic and geometric
progressions. Then I worked on more complex ones
about solving engineering problems to try to achieve all
I found the questions in textbooks useful because they
gave the answers at the back.
I read through the questions carefully before starting to
answer them. I worked out how long to spend on each
the criteria.
question, so that I would have time to check through for
any mistakes. I had planned to answer the questions in a
How I brought it all together different order from the way they were given, but in the
▸▸ I went through the worked examples carefully, writing end I did not need to. Doing lots of practice really helped.
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out the solutions myself.
▸▸ I then tried answering the same questions myself Think about it
without looking at the example. ▸▸ Have you identified what topics you need to revise?
▸▸ I then changed the numbers slightly and tried again ▸▸ Do you know which problems are routine and
until I was confident in solving the problems. which are non-routine?
D

▸▸ When I was more confident I used questions from ▸▸ Have you planned your time? Don’t spend too
other textbooks and the internet. long on any one problem.

34 Further Engineering Mathematics