Mathematical signs and symbols for use in the physical sciences and technology
1Key Takeaways
This International Standard specifies the meaning, reading and application of mathematical symbols used in physical science and technology. This standard applies to all fields of science and technology.
2Expert Interpretation
An in-depth interpretation of the national standard GB 3102.11-93 "Mathematical Symbols for Use in Physical Science and Technology", covering 11 major symbol systems such as geometry, sets, operations, functions, etc., and detailing the key points of the connection with the international standard ISO 31-11 and engineering application scenarios, and providing a guide to the use of standardized symbols.
Standard Background and Scope of Application
This standard replaces GB 3102.11-86 and is equivalent to ISO 31-11:1992 international standard. It is part 11 of the GB 3100~3102 series of standards. As a supporting standard for the "Measurement Law of the People's Republic of China", it standardizes the mathematical symbol system used in physical science, engineering technology and teaching.
Comparison of Core Symbol Systems
| Symbol Category | Typical Symbols | Changes in the 1986 Edition | Correspondence to International Standards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Geometric Symbols | △, ∥, ≅ | New Arc AB Representation | ISO 31-11 11-1 |
| Set Theory | ∈, ∪, ∩ | Explicit Complement Representation | ISO 31-11 11-2 |
| Calculus | ∂, ∫, ∇ | Uniform partial derivative symbols | ISO 31-11 11-6 |
Key implementation points
Font specification example
Special instructions according to Chapter 1 of the standard: variables z and functions f should be in italics, and known functions sin and constants π should be in regular font, such as:
Correct: f(x) = sin x + π
Incorrect: f(x) = sin x + π
Engineering Application Specifications
Vector Representation
In the field of electromagnetics, the vector F should be expressed as:
F = (3N, -2N, 5N) = (3, -2, 5)N
Where the unit N is treated as a scalar, the same rule applies to tensor operations.