Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives Students completing this subject will be expected to understand a range of techniques that can be used to determine analytical solutions of differential equations, including a basic understanding of Laplace transform theory. Further, students should understand and be able to use the Fourier series for periodic functions and be able to apply these to partial differential equations.
Synopsis This subject will cover a variety of methods for the solution of differential equations, extending the techniques covered in the prerequisite first year subjects; topics covered include determining general solutions of certain types of linear second and higher-order ordinary differential equations, including by reduction of order, variation of parameters, power-series and Frobenius methods; Laplace transforms are introduced and used to solve ordinary differential equations; Fourier series are introduced and applied to the solution of partial differential equations by the method of separation of variables.
Assessment Examinations (1.5 hours): 90% + Assignments: 10%