ABSTRACT
As engineers we are concerned with solving problems, which may involve not only the engineering sciences but also related subjects such as economics and management science. The ability to solve problems can be gained through a combination of practical experience of particular problems and the systematic study of underlying principles. Although both are necessary for the practising engineer, the study of principles leads more rapidly to a genuine understanding, and makes it possible to tackle new problems not previously met. For convenience, the total subject matter of engineering science is usually subdivided into a number of topics, such as solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, properties of materials, and so on, although there are close links between them in terms of the physical principles involved, the methods of analysis employed, and the objective of the study.
