Expanded to include a broader range of problems than the bestselling first edition, Finite Element Method Using MATLAB: Second Edition presents finite element approximation concepts, formulation, and programming in a format that effectively streamlines the learning process. It is written from a general engineering and mathematical perspective rather than that of a solid/structural mechanics basis. What's new in the Second Edition? Each chapter in the Second Edition now includes an overview that outlines the contents and purpose of each chapter. The authors have also added a new chapter of special topics in applications, including cracks, semi-infinite and infinite domains, buckling, and thermal stress. They discuss three different linearization techniques to solve nonlinear differential equations. Also included are new sections on shell formulations and MATLAB programs. These enhancements increase the book's already significant value both as a self-study text and a reference for practicing engineers and scientists. Booknews Presenting introductory and some advanced topics of the finite element method (FEM), this text is intended for upper-level undergraduate and lower-level graduate courses; it contains more material than can be covered in a single semester, but some sections can be skipped for a one-semester introductory course. Includes an introduction to MATLAB for those new to the software, as well as analysis of shell structures as one of the most important structural applications of FEM. New to this edition is a chapter on special topics, including analysis of cracks, thermal analysis for multilayered structures, and buckling analysis, both static and dynamic. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com) More Reviews and Recommendations Table Of Contents: Ch. 1Introduction to MATLAB1Ch. 2Approximation Techniques31Ch. 3Finite Element Programming51Ch. 4Direct Approach with Spring System71Ch. 5Laplace's and Poisson's Equations85Ch. 6Iso