An investigation into the use of the finite element method for certain continuum problems

The Finite Element Method is a numerical technique for obtaining approximate solutions to a wide range of engineering problems. Although originating in the matrix method for evaluating stress in complex structures, it has since been extended and applied to the broader field of continuum mechanics, providing a very flexible tool for analysis with a wide range of applications. The approach used in this thesis is that of providing a suite of computer programs aimed at solving a general second order linear partial differential equation in two dimensions. [Continues.]