Calculus is the study of change of calculations in mathematics. Calculus computations can figure things such as the area of planar geometric shapes or the volume of geometric solids. Architecture students will use calculus to figure the acoustics, lighting, heating, ventilation and electricity. Often architects work with engineers to design the internal systems of the building such as HVAC. Calculus can help architects relate to engineers while designing the building. Calculus lessons stimulate analytical thinking.
Trigonometry is the component of computation in geometry. Using functions such as sine, cosine and tangent, trigonometry relates the measurements of angles to measurements of associated straight lines. Architects use trigonometry to figure where to put the corners and angles of a structure. Trigonometry will help configure the relation of the corners to the planes or walls so the structure will stand and be sound. Trigonometry also helps the architect convey the measurements of the walls and angles to the construction crew that will build the building or home.
Architect students must take an analytical geometry and calculus course to learn about coordinates and graphing of algebraic formulas. Analytical geometry and calculus uses the Cartesian coordinate system to figure the position of a point in a three-dimensional space. Architecture students use this course to configure models of their structures while they are in the design process. The analytical geometry and calculus computations assist them with scaling walls, angles and space in design.
Finite math teaches and cultivates mathematical analytical techniques and lessons. The course covers logic, probability, statistics and mathematical model building. Architects design buildings much like putting the pieces of a puzzle together – everything must be in a specific place in order to fit together properly. Flexing the analytical side of an architect student’s brain helps him to figure out where everything must fit together in the design while solving problems as they arise.