ABSTRACT

Most calculations required by environmental engineers require a knowledge of the basics, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and sequence of operations, among others. Although many of these operations are fundamental tools within each environmental practitioner’s toolbox, these tools must be used on a consistent basis to remain sharp. Environmental practitioners should master basic math definitions and the formation of problems, as daily operations require calculation of percentages, averages, simple ratios, geometric dimensions, threshold odor numbers, and force, pressure, and head, as well as the use of dimensional analysis and advanced math operations. With regard to advanced math operations, an in-depth knowledge of algebra, linear algebra, vectors, trigonometry, analytic geometry, differential calculus, integral calculus, and differential equations is required in certain environmental engineering design and analysis operations; however, we leave discussion of these higher operations to the math textbooks.