anyone here actually use math beyond algebra at their jobs?

Question

math teacher DOES NOT count.

if you do give an example of a typical problem you encounter, then explain how to solve it.

i know some people use advanced math, the question is do YOU use it.

Answer 1

I use calculus and differential equation to find the rate if diffusion for a chemical when added to a pond, This allow for determination of time needed to add the chemical, how many g/L i need to add. This to help clean up certain bodies of water.

Answer 2

I'm a master carpet installer. True the math I use isn't exactly rocket science, but consider this. Every room, every building is different, with it's own unique levelling, formation and everything else. Measuring for area, considering the waste factors of materials, understanding stretch, and loss of material by cutting for seams, and allowing for pattern matching. The list goes on and on, and when you place material over a three dimensional object, something that isn't just a wall or a floor, the design and understanding gets more complicated. Overall it's a simple grouping of Geometry, and Algebra, but in the building/construction/manufacturing industries mastering these basic skills and beyond isn't so difficult, and with experience becomes second natured to even the most math inept people. So yes, I'd say I have to use more than simple algebra in order to get through the workday both efficiently, and expertly.

Answer 3

As an engineer, I use a lot of algebra, differential equations, some integration, statistics, more statistics, numerical analysis, and logic on a regular basis.

I've noticed that it is very important that I know how to use the various techniques, but less important that I'm good at any one of them. The insight gained from learning the technique is often more important than the technique itself.

One major key is that I have to identify the type of problem I'm looking at. Without a very good background and an understanding of how each type of problem is solved, that can be very difficult.

Answer 4

How about this... computer performance analysis requires the use of statistics and probabilities. Separate case, I was involved in a wreck with a motorcycle and a little knowlege of physics and math (integration of Newton's laws) proved the motorcycle was greatly exceeding the speed limit, and thus contributed to the accident. Saved me and my insurance company a lot. Finally, electronics design (years ago and now as a hobby) requires advanced algebra, trigonometry, and a little calculus.

Answer 5

Me. Occasionally. But I'm a physics teacher.
Calculus is used a lot in engineering.
Statistics is used a lot in business.
Trigonometry is used a lot in construction. I can't go through a working day without using trig. If you know what to do with it, it's useful as heck. Use trig all the time in physics.

Here's another alternative. Don't learn math and then complain that your salary is low and businessmen and engineers get paid so much more and how unfair all that is.

Answer 6

Yes, since I work as a sort of analyst for the project. I used statistics in alayzing all the data given to me. Like analysis of a data from an experiment or a study, i don't use merely algebra. I use higher form of math/stat.

Answer 7

Electrical engineers use calculus and differential equations. The most advanced math I ever used in my job was modern algebra and finite field math; these are used in error detection and correction in digital signal processing. Digital signal processing also involves finite difference equations. Information theory uses integral calculus as do most engineering fields. AC network analysis uses complex numbers and complex algebra. Engineers also use vector calculus and analytic geometry.

Answer 8

Despite having taken several math classes, including 3 semesters of calculus, I've never used anything beyond basic arithmetic.

Interesting stuff, though.

Answer 9

I know someone who works for the state, the DMV, in their division that puts out the driving test. They use a lot of advanced statistics and mathematics in determining which questions should be on the same test, etc.

Answer 10

Yes... Mechanical engineer.
Some other areas....Matrices used in planning traffic light patterns.
LaPlace(sp?) Transforms in Electrical Applications.
Statistics and Statistical Analysis in most every company that manufactures things (Quality Control / SPC)

Once it clicks... you can really get geeked up about it. It is really cool! (Watch Numbers on TV - not sure network.)