Mathematical Tools for Scientists
Full course description
This course builds on the material in PHY1101 and introduces some new concepts that are important in many natural sciences. It is most suitable for students interested in taking non-mathematical focused courses who want to further their understanding of mathematics. (Physics, mathematics and computer science focused students should expect to take other Mathematics courses – rather than this one).
The topics covered include further differentiation and integration, differential equations, mathematical series, exponential decay and growth. Some vectors and matrices may be covered, as well as an introduction to linear algebra. This course will focus on the application of mathematical tools to problems which are challenging or impractical to solve without them.
Course objectives
- To acquire an understanding of mathematical tools that are useful in solving problems within the Natural Sciences;
- To be able to apply these tools to appropriate situations and correctly evaluate numerical solutions;
- To gain an appreciation of the suitability for using mathematical tools in certain scientific situations and develop a lifelong appreciation for the use of mathematics in science.
Prerequisites
- None
Co-requisites
- None
Recommended reading
- Active Prelude to Calculus, Matthew Boelkins, 2019, https://activecalculus.org/;
- Active Calculus, Matthew Boelkins, David Austin & Steven Schlicker, 2018, https://activecalculus.org/;
- Active Calculus Multivariate, Steven Schlicker, David Austin & Matthew Boelkins, 2018, https://activecalculus.org/;
- Other open source mathematical literature will be used as required to supplement the above texts.