What are the differences between numerical methods and numerical analysis?

Answer 1

A numerical method is the same as an algorithm, the steps required to solve a numerical problem. Algorithms became very important as computers were increasingly used to solve problems. It was no longer necessary to solve complex mathematical problems with a single closed form equation. See link on algorithm. According to Wikipedia: Numerical analysis is the study of algorithms for the problems of continuous mathematics (as distinguished from discrete mathematics). See link on numerical analysis. An expanded definition offered by K.E. Atkinson is: Numerical analysis is the area of mathematics and computer science that creates, analyzes, and implements algorithms for solving numerically the problems of continuous mathematics. Such problems originate generally from real-world applications of algebra, geometry and calculus, and they involve variables which vary continuously; these problems occur throughout the natural sciences,Social Sciences, engineering, medicine, and business. Numerical analysis courses typically are offered as part of Industrial engineering (Operations research), applied mathematics, computer science. Simulation, operations research and computer science are very interrelated