Mathematical foundations of biomechanics

Peter F Niederer1

  • 1Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), Zurich, Switzerland. niederer@biomed.ee.ethz.ch

Summary

Biomechanics analyzes biological structures using mechanics, math, and physics. This introduction covers fundamental principles for students to understand its broad applications in science and medicine.

Related Concept Videos

An Introduction to Mechanics01:28

An Introduction to Mechanics

Humans have been making ships, shelters, pyramids, weapons, agricultural equipment, and many more items without recording the process or theory behind them for centuries. It would be challenging to document the evolution of mechanics from its origin to the present.
According to records, the history of mechanics starts with Aristotle (384–322 BC). He related mechanics to physical theory, aiming for a universal synthesis.
Newton defined mechanics as the branch of physical science that studies the...
Fundamental Theorem of Calculus I01:23

Fundamental Theorem of Calculus I

Solving problems involving definite integrals requires a systematic approach that ensures clarity and efficiency. The first step is understanding the problem by identifying the calculated quantity, whether it involves accumulation, area, or a physical concept like force or probability. It is essential to recognize given conditions, such as the range of integration and any constraints that may affect the solution. Before computing, key properties of definite integrals should be analyzed to...
Simplification of a Force and Couple System: II01:23

Simplification of a Force and Couple System: II

In a three-dimensional system, multiple forces can act on an object. These forces can be combined into a single equivalent force, known as the resultant force. Similarly, the moments generated by these forces can be combined into a single equivalent moment, the resultant couple moment. In certain situations, these two entities may not be mutually perpendicular, meaning they do not have a 90-degree angle between them. This unique condition requires a deeper understanding of the interplay between...
Fundamental Mathematical Principles in Pharmacokinetics: Mathematical Expressions and Units01:19

Fundamental Mathematical Principles in Pharmacokinetics: Mathematical Expressions and Units

Mathematical principles play a crucial role in pharmacokinetics, providing a framework for understanding and quantifying drug distribution and elimination dynamics in the body. By utilizing mathematical expressions and units, pharmacologists can accurately characterize the behavior of drugs, optimize dosing regimens, and predict therapeutic outcomes.
One significant application of mathematics in pharmacokinetics is the characterization of drug distribution through the volume of distribution...
Fundamental Mathematical Principles in Pharmacokinetics: Calculus and Graphs01:21

Fundamental Mathematical Principles in Pharmacokinetics: Calculus and Graphs

The fundamental mathematical principles, such as calculus and graphs, play crucial roles in analyzing drug movement and determining pharmacokinetic parameters. Differential calculus examines rates of change and helps to determine the dissolution rate of drugs in biofluids, as well as how drug concentrations change over time. For instance, it can help calculate the rate of elimination of a drug from the body based on its concentration-time profile.
On the other hand, integral calculus focuses on...
Kinematic Equations - III01:18

Kinematic Equations - III

The first two kinematic equations have time as a variable, but the third kinematic equation is independent of time. This equation expresses final velocity as a function of the acceleration and distance over which it acts. The fourth kinematic equation does not have an acceleration term and provides the final position of the object at time t in terms of the initial and final velocities. This equation is useful when the value of the constant acceleration is unknown.
Using the kinematic equations,...