Mathematical concepts

This article is an overview of the key mathematical concepts required to understand computer science, physics and physiology as applied to anaesthesia. Topics include classification of numbers, base systems, scientific notation and rounding, logarithms, plain geometry, conic sections, graphical representation and periodic functions. Particular emphasis is given to exponential curves, as these relate to many phenomena in anaesthesia including uptake and elimination of drugs, and the flow of heat, gases, liquids and electrical current. The role of complex functions such as calculus and Fourier analysis is described; however a detailed understanding of these topics is not necessary to appreciate their application.