Probability, Statistics, and Reliability for Engineers and Scientists, Second Edition

Book excerpt: Virtually every engineer and scientist needs to be able to collect, analyze, interpret, and properly use vast arrays of data. This means acquiring a solid foundation in the methods of data analysis and synthesis. Understanding the theoretical aspects is important, but learning to properly apply the theory to real-world problems is essential. The second edition of this bestselling text introduces probability, statistics, reliability, and risk methods with an ideal balance of theory and applications. Clearly written and firmly focused on the practical use of these methods, it places increased emphasis on simulation, particularly as a modeling tool, applying it progressively with projects that continue in each chapter. It also features expanded discussions of the analysis of variance including single- and two-factor analyses and a thorough treatment of Monte Carlo simulation. The authors clearly establish the limitations, advantages, and disadvantages of each method, but also show that data analysis is a continuum rather than the isolated application of different methods. Probability, Statistics, and Reliability for Engineers and Scientists, Second Edition, was designed as both a reference and as a textbook, and it serves each purpose well. Ultimately, readers will find its content of great value in problem solving and decision making, particularly in practical applications.