Solution Manual
CHAPTER 1
1. Define systems, what are the system characteristics?
The definition can be easily found from the text. A system can be broadly defined as a set
of integrated components that interact with each other and depend upon each other, to
2. Give an example of a system under the systems engineering context, identify the basic
elements involved.
3. What is the system classification? Briefly discuss these classifications, give examples
(other than those examples given in the book)
Natural system vs Man-made system: Natural systems are self-organizing systems
existing in nature, such as the great Everglades Ecosystem; Man-made systems are
4. Define science and engineering? What is the difference between science and engineering?
5. What is reductionism and what is expansionism, briefly discuss the difference between
these two.
Reductionism is a philosophical view of science. It is based on principle of causality,
which is a system behavior can be explained completely by its fundamental elements or
6. Describe the main historic phases of systems engineering development, and what are the
main development milestones for each phase.
