Understanding the Differences Between Civil and Architectural Engineering
Civil engineering is a branch of science that uses mathematical methods and engineering theories to design and build structures. The discipline involves a wide range of learning, with each student working at developing their own individual approach and developing their own expertise. Civil engineers are responsible for the design of public works such as dams, bridges, buildings, and tunnels. They are also responsible for the research behind such advances as aircraft, automobiles, and space technology. Civil engineering also deals with issues affecting cities and local governments at both the national and regional levels.
When you look back over the course of history, you will find that civil engineering has shaped many things. For example, the wonders we now enjoy in roads, buildings, bridges, and tunnels were the result of civil engineers designing and building the equipment needed for these wonderful developments. Other examples include the flight to space, satellites, and communications systems. Regardless of the great leaps and bounds made by civil engineers, there have been many instances when their ingenuity has been questioned.
There are some people who question the efficiency of engineering, pointing out that it is not used to solve real-world problems. For example, they argue that it is inefficient to use the water supply on Mars because of the extreme temperatures and long distances to travel. Some also point out that without engineering there would be no water available to humans on Earth. While there may be some truth to these statements, the reality is that civil engineering is necessary to the operation of all forms of industry and government. Without engineers to design, plan and manage the way these industries operate, the whole structure would come crumbling down. Without engineers, cities and local governments would not be able to function properly or meet the needs of their inhabitants.
Civil engineers are responsible for the designs of buildings and infrastructure that provide safe passage into the outdoors, as well as the maintenance of these structures. A good example of a structure that civil engineers take care of is the road. Without proper planning, construction, drainage, and other issues, roads become dangerous to drive on and expensive to maintain. Bridges need to be repaired periodically, while drainage systems must be cleaned and upgraded on a regular basis. Without this expertise, the efficiency of these structures is severely compromised, putting both public safety and the overall value of these structures at risk.
Bridges and tunnels are particularly important to consider. Bridges need to have sufficient width to accommodate vehicle traffic, as well as being deep enough to withstand the weight of individuals driving on the roads in question. A bridge is also needed to support the various types of materials that are being used in the construction of roads and bridges. For example, a road constructed of concrete that is two to three feet wide would normally need asphalt shingles to be added to the top of the structure to keep the roadway from slipping away. Without the expertise of civil engineers, these aspects of road construction would simply not be possible.
The drainage system needs to properly divert water away from roads and sidewalks in order to prevent flooding and prevent potential damage to structures along the way. This is another specialty area that civil engineers handle. Without proper drainage systems in place, cities and towns find themselves in a dangerous situation. They would be left with nothing but useless piles of mud and garbage if the water kept rising up into city streets and sidewalks. Additionally, without proper sewer systems, flooding in some areas could also occur. Again, without the experience and expertise of civil engineers, these areas would be disastrous.
Finally, another specialized field of expertise involves the field of architectural engineering. The purpose of this discipline is to ensure that buildings, homes, and other structures are built in a manner that will withstand any weather conditions. In other words, it ensures the structural integrity of a building. Architectural engineering systems are extremely important to the world around us and require the expertise of a highly specialized and detail-oriented field. Civil engineers perform a variety of tasks throughout the construction process, ranging from drafting blueprints to supervising the construction of steel reinforcement.
It can be difficult to understand how much of a role civil engineering plays in ensuring the safety and functionality of our nation’s transportation, public works, and infrastructure. However, it is undeniable that without civil engineers, many of today’s most vital public works would not be completed. Additionally, the lives of people depend on the quality of the public works of our country. Without civil engineers, the integrity of our nation’s roadways would be in jeopardy.
