Module Information

Module Identifier
PH16210
Module Title
Algebra and Differential Equations
Academic Year
2021/2022
Co-ordinator
Professor John Gough
Semester
Semester 1
Pre-Requisite
A Level Mathematics or equivalent
Co-Requisite
MP10610 or MT10610
Exclusive (Any Acad Year)
FG16210
Exclusive (Any Acad Year)
MA10510
Exclusive (Any Acad Year)
MA11210
Exclusive (Any Acad Year)
MT11210
Exclusive (Any Acad Year)
MT10510
Other Staff
 

Course Delivery

 

Assessment

Due to Covid-19 students should refer to the module Blackboard pages for assessment details

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment Online Test 2  15%
Semester Assessment Online Test 1  15%
Semester Exam 2 Hours   Semester Exam  70%
Supplementary Exam 2 Hours   Written Examination  100%

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

1. Manipulate complex numbers and use DeMoivre’s theorem.
2. Employ the division algorithm for polynomials.
3. Derive identities involving the roots of a polynomial and its coefficients.
4. Determine the order, homogeneity, linearity and ordinary/partial character of differential equations.
5. Identify suitable solution strategies for common types of ordinary differential equation.
6. Solve separable and linear-homogeneous ODE and linear ODE with constant coefficients.

Aims

To equip students with concepts of algebra such as complex numbers, polynomials and functions, which are needed to understand physical concepts and solve physical problems.
To introduce the concept of ordinary differential equations (ODE) and fundamental solution strategies for ODE used in various physical contexts.

Brief description

This module covers the basic algebra needed to study physical concepts and processes quantitatively. It also introduces ordinary differential equations, underpinning topics such as acoustics and quantum mechanics.

Content

Complex numbers: Geometric representation, DeMoivre's theorem.
Polynomials: Polynomial division, symmetric functions, relations between roots of a polynomial and its coefficients
Functions of a real variable: Graphs of elementary functions (polynomia, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, hyperbolic etc.), periodic functions, even and odd functions. Operations on functions: addition, multiplication, division, composition. Asymptotes. Inverse functions.

Series: Convergence of series. Power Series.
Classifying differential equations: Order, ordinary vs. partial, homogeneity, linearity.
First-order equations with separable variables. Radioactive decay. Boundary conditions (e.g. initial values).
Homogeneous linear first-order equations. Integrating factor method. Higher orders. Free fall.
Non-homogeneous equations. Particular function. Driven oscillations. Special cases: Heterogeneous part solves homogeneous equation.
Linear ODE with constant coefficients. Characteristic polynomial. Special cases: Degenerate roots. Standing waves.

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Application of Number Application of numbers occurs in examples.
Communication Students will have to state definitions of mathematical terms concisely.
Improving own Learning and Performance There is opportunity to learn from feedback in the workshops and so to improve perfromance.
Problem solving Mathematical problems to be solved in each of the workshops.
Research skills Research skills are developed through background reading on the module topics
Subject Specific Skills Translating physical problems into mathematical equations and models.
Team work There is opportunity for group work in the workshops where students are encouraged to work together to solve problems and learn from each other.

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 4