Math 4457      Methods of Applied Mathematics       Fall, 2003

Professor Peter J. Olver
School of Mathematics
Institute of Technology
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN 55455
540 Vincent Hall
Phone: 612-624-5534
Fax: 612-626-2017
e-mail: olver@math.umn.edu
http://www.math.umn.edu/~olver
Lectures:    MWF 11:15 - 12:05, Vincent Hall 301
Office Hours:   M 1:30-3:30, F 12:15-1:15, or by appointment


Homework Assignments

Hour Exams


Course Description:   The year course Math 4457-8 is designed to introduce the basic tools used in applications of mathematics. Topics include linear algebra, differential equations, boundary value problems, numerical approximations, Fourier analysis, complex variables, dynamical systems, etc. Many applications will be discussed, including mechanical structures, electrical circuits, fluid mechanics, continuum mechanics, geometry, signal and image processing, and many more.

Prerequisites: Strong background in linear algebra and multi-variable calculus (3000 level). Some mathematical sophistication.

Text:   The course will be based on the professor's typed lecture notes, which will be available at Alpha Print, 1407 4th St. SE, in Dinkytown, 612-379-8535.


Homework:   Each assignment will consist of problems from the text, together with one or more computer projects. Assignments handed out on a Wednesday will be due the following Wednesday.

Computer Projects:   I will be introducing and using the numerical and graphing package Matlab to illustrate many of the concepts and calculations. Students will be expected to learn the basics of Matlab. Some class sessions will meet in the computer lab; dates and place will be announced in advance. The computer projects are expected to be programmed in Matlab. However, neither the professor nor the grader will be expected to read computer code or be responsible for debugging! The final output must be in easily readable form, and the grade will depend on presentation and neatness as well as mathematical correctness. Unintelligible outputs will receive no credit.

Hour Exams:   There will be two midterm exams; the date and chapters covered will be announced in due course. Make-up exams will only be given in exceptional circumstances, and then only when notice is given to me before hand and a suitable written excuse forthcoming.

Final Exam:     Thursday, December 18, 8:00 - 10:00 am

Grading:

Incompletes:   Only given in extreme circumstances, and only when the student has satisfactorily completed all but a small portion of the work in the course. Students must make prior arrangements with the professor well before the end of the quarter.

Grading Standards and Student Conduct:   Students are expected to be familiar with University of Minnesota policies on grading standards and student conduct, including the consequences for students who violate standards of academic honesty.


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