algebra: A field of mathematics that describes a way to think about certain relationships that will involve numbers. And not just any particular number, usually, but abstract expressions involving numbers. For instance, instead of saying “1 + 2 = 3” or “3 – 1 = 2,” algebra gives each number a letter to take its place. So it now reads something like a “a + b = c” or “c – a = b.” But any number can substitute for those letters as long as the values on each side of the equal sign are still true. In other words, the a can be a 100 and b can be 101 as long as c = 201. Such expressions with different things on either side of an equals sign are known as algebraic equations.

angle: The space (usually measured in degrees) between two intersecting lines or surfaces at or close to the point where they meet.

calculus: The branch of mathematics that deals with things that are changing, such as amounts that will be accumulating or rates of speed (acceleration).

daunting: A description for something that is intimidating and which seems hard to imagine in detail such that you can figure out how to cope with, master or achieve it.

develop: To emerge or to make come into being, either naturally or through human intervention, such as by manufacturing.

engineering: The field of research that uses math and science to solve practical problems. Someone who works in this field is known as an engineer.

environmental engineer: A person who uses science to study and solve problems in ecosystems — from forests to the human body.

fundamental: Something that is basic or serves as the foundation for another thing or idea.

geometry: The mathematical study of shapes, especially points, lines, planes, curves and surfaces. Geometry can also refer to the defined shape of something (such as it had a very spherical geometry).

proof: (in math) The showing, step-by-step, that a given statement is true.

sequence: The precise order of related things within some series.

square: (In mathematics) A number multiplied by itself, or the verb meaning to multiply a number by itself. The square of 2 is 4; the square of 10 is 100. (in geometry) A rectangle with four sides of equal length.

trigonometry: A field of mathematics that relates values having to do with the sides and angles of triangles and other geometric shapes.