III III
What is engineering? Engineering Fundamentals
provides a complete introduction to the fi eld. It
is written to help you learn about engineering
and how it affects our everyday lives. You will
learn how engineering is different from science
and technology. You will also learn how science,
math, and technology are an integral part of engi-
neering design.
Engineering Fundamentals begins by giving
you a clear picture of the basics of engineering.
First, you will learn about engineering and the
types of work engineers in various disciplines do.
You will then read an extensive, fi ve-chapter intro-
duction to the engineering design process. Real-
world examples are given to help you understand
why each step of the process is necessary when
designing new products, devices, or systems.
This section is followed by nine chapters
that focus on engineering disciplines. Each of
these chapters describes the specifi c engineering
career, its educational requirements, and exam-
ples of real-world engineering projects. Engineering
Fundamentals also discusses the principles associ-
ated with each discipline. The basic science and math
required to understand the engineering and tech-
nology prin ciples are explained in these chapters.
Introduction
The fi nal chapter discusses engineering as a
profession. This includes such topics as the func-
tions of engineers, regulating bodies, ethics, and
teamwork. The chapter also discusses various
impacts of engineering as well as the future of
engineering.
Engineering Fundamentals is illustrated with
photographs and drawings to help explain chap-
ter concepts. Each chapter begins with a list of
objectives. Important terms related to engineer-
ing are shown in bold italics where they are
defi ned. Test Your Knowledge questions at the
end of each chapter help check your understand-
ing of chapter material. Several features through-
out the chapter enhance chapter content while
explaining related math, science, history, tools, or
green concepts.
Engineering Fundamentals will educate
you about career opportunities in engineering
and provide practical applications of math and
science principles. Engineering Fundamentals
will inspire you to consider engineering-related
careers and to be more successful in your math
and science courses.