Expert: Jeanette A - 9/26/2009

Question
how matrix application is used in civil engineering

Answer
Hello Abi,

Well Matrix Methods are applied to Structural Analysis. Structural Analysis is the calculation of forces, deflections, stresses etc within a structure. There are two types of methods that can be used to analyse the structures and that is:

1. Classical Methods: gives answers by analytical formulation (only for simple structures). This method uses formulas of beams and columns and calculates using Method of Joints and Method of Sections for trusses, Moment Distribution (MD) for small rigid frames, other methods also include Principle of Virtual Work, Influence Lines, Force Method etc etc...

2. Matrix Methods: gives answers by computer orientated matrix computations (for a structure of any size and complexity). They break up a structure into smaller elements with many connections between elements - This is known as 'Finite Element Analysis'.

Both methods have common fundamental relations, which are;

- Equilibrium is to be satisfied
- Constitutive
- Compatibility "

Hope that helps.

Warm Regards,
Jeanette