MECH 594

Problem Policy

Homeworks:

Homeworks are due at the beginning of class on the date due. Homeworks should show your name, the course number, and homework set number on the first page and your name on successive pages. After the due date, homework solutions will be available in a binder in MEB 101 and on the course webpage in pdf format. Note that since the homeworks are graded they are therefore subject to the honor code. Whatever discussions you have in study groups, please be sure that you submit your own work.
 

Please note for Exams and Homeworks:

1. Points will be deducted in your homeworks and exams if your submission is not clear in logic and presentation.
2. All quantities must have the correct dimensions.
3. All answers must be clearly marked (e.g., boxed or underlined).

Please fold your homeworks lengthwise and write your name, course number, and homework number on the outside.
 
 

Format for Problems

The following format represents the level of professionalism that is required of practicing engineers. By following these guidelines, you will develop good work habits that will benefit and protect both your future employers and yourself. In addition, you will make the grader happy which is always a good idea. But remember the old saying "Time is money." Do not waste time recopying your homework to meet the format. Do professional work the first time!

The problems in Mech 594 will be assigned in sets due on a weekly basis. The problems must be presented in a professional format. Use one side only of clean, 8.5" x 11" paper leaving 1" margins. Identify every sheet with your name and number pages. Staple pages in upper left-hand corner. Hand in flat; do not fold. Use ink or dark, sharp pencil. Each problem should be written up in the following manner. In addition, a discussion may be called for on occasion. Be precise and concise.

1. State briefly (in your own words) the information given. Do not recopy the full problem statement - that is a waste of time.
2. State the information to be found.
3. Draw a schematic of the system or control volume to be used in the analysis. Be sure to label the boundaries of the system or control volume and label appropriate coordinate directions. Show forces, flows and label states.
4. Give the appropriate mathematical formulation of the basic laws that you consider necessary to solve the problem.
5. List the simplifying assumptions that you feel are appropriate in the problem.
6. Carry the analysis to completion algebraically before substituting numerical values.
7. Substitute numerical values (using a consistent set of units) to obtain a numerical answer. The number of significant figures in the answer should be consistent with the given data.
8. Check the answer and review the assumptions made in the solution to make sure they are reasonable.
9. Box the answer.

Problem Grading

Each problem in a set will normally count 10 points toward the total grade. Any exceptions will be noted explicitly. The total is the sum of all problems during the semester (after droping your two lowest homework scores). The grading scale is as follows:

9 to 10 points - A very good to excellent problem solution. May contain one small error. Small errors include conversion of units, minor numerical errors, etc.

7 to 8 points - A good solution. Might contain one major error or several small errors. Major errors include improper use of basic principles, bad mathematics, poor use of control volumes, unprofessional work, etc.

5 to 6 points - A poor solution. Two major errors or one major error and several small errors.

2 to 4 points - A very poor solution. Represents a minimal attempt at the solution.

0 points - Solution not attempted.