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Applied Mathematics 3

Unit code: MAN521
Contact hours: 4 per week
Credit points: 12
Information about fees and unit costs

Topics selected from: partial differential equations such as the wave, heat and Laplace equations; special functions( gamma, delta, Bessel and error functions, Legendre polynomials); vector analysis and applications (vector algebra, vector calculus, fields, grad, div, curl, line and surface integrals, divergence theorem, Stoke's theorem, applications); functions of a complex variable (analytic functions, contour integrals, Laurent series, residues).


Availability
Semester Available
2013 Semester 1 Yes

Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

This postgraduate unit builds on the mathematical studies you have already undertaken in the prerequisite unit MAN311 and presents an introduction to some of the commonly-encountered equations and frequently-used solution techniques of applied mathematics, which together form an indispensable part of the mathematical knowledge needed for applied mathematics, engineering or science.

Aims

This unit aims to continue development of your mathematical knowledge, skills and techniques necessary for advanced level study of various branches of applied mathematics.

Objectives

Successfully completing this unit will enable you to:

1. Understand the principles of vector analysis and be able to apply these principles to develop some of the fundamental equations of applied mathematics.
2. Solve, using analytical methods, some of the more important equations of applied mathematics.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of the theory of functions of a complex variable required for solving various problems encountered in applied mathematics.
4. Develop generic skills including:
(a) Engage critical thinking skills.
(b) Draw on a range of knowledge and thinking skills to solve problems.
(c) Communicate in writing appropriate to context.
(d) Use current technologies to advance own learning.
(e) Retrieve, evaluate and use relevant information.
(f) Possess an awareness of own strengths and limitations.

Content

The major topics that you will encounter in this unit will be chosen (in accordance with the needs and skills of the student cohort) from a selection of:

  • Vector analysis and applications including vector algebra, vector calculus, fields, grad, div and curl, line and surface integrals, divergence theorem, Stoke's theorem, applications.
  • Formulation of common partial differential equations of applied mathematics.
  • Analytical solution methods of partial differential equations, including methods such as similarity solutions and the method of characteristics.
  • Special functions including a selection of the beta, gamma, delta, Bessel and error functions, Fourier series, and Legendre polynomials.
  • Complex variable theory for the solution of partial differential equations on irregular regions. This includes functions of a complex variable, analytic functions, contour integrals, Laurent series, residues and conformal mappings.

    Approaches to Teaching and Learning

    The content will be presented in lectures and workshops and online learning experiences will be employed to enhance and expand the content. At this level, you are expected to consolidate the material presented during class by working a wide variety of exercises and problems. You will develop creativity and critical thinking through independent investigations of the subject matter via reference texts, online references and journal articles of an appropriate level.

    An online learning and teaching web page will be employed to provide materials including lecture notes as well as material that is additional or supplemental to the notes, solutions and/or answers to exercises and assignments, and feedback on assignments. You will be expected to participate in online and in-person collaborative learning exercises.

    This unit is being taught concurrently with an undergraduate offering of the same subject. University policy permits that postgraduate and undergraduate students attend the same lectures. Separate tutorial/discussion groups will be provided for postgraduate student where numbers allow. As a postgraduate student you will be required to complete separate or additional assessment.

    Assessment

    All assessment contributes to your grade.Feedback will be provided on your progress.

    Assessment name: Log/Workbook
    Description: (Formative and summative) - This assessment will consist of a number of individual and/or group assignments. Timing of these will be negotiated with the class in week 1. Assignments will consist of traditional problem-solution based exercises as well as applications of computer algebra packages (such as MATLAB and Maple) and online research.
    Relates to objectives: 1 to 4.
    Weight: 15%
    Internal or external: Internal
    Group or individual: Individual
    Due date: Throughout Semester

    Assessment name: Problem Solving Task
    Description: The problem solving task will provide you with an opportunity to exhibit newly acquired skills in the early material covered in the unit. This will also give you experience with the style of examination question used in your final exam.
    Relates to objectives: 1 to 3.
    Weight: 25%
    Internal or external: Internal
    Group or individual: Individual
    Due date: Mid Semester

    Assessment name: Examination (Theory)
    Description: (Summative) - The final exam will provide you with an opportunity to exhibit your newly acquired levels of knowledge and expertise in the material covered in this unit.
    Relates to objectives: 1 to 4
    Weight: 60%
    Internal or external: Internal
    Group or individual: Individual
    Due date: End Semester

    Academic Honesty

    QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

    A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

    Resource materials

    Texts:

    There are no set texts for this unit. You will be provided with lecture notes and other materials via the unit online learning and teaching website.

    References:

    1. Kreyszig (2006) Advanced Engineering Mathematics, 9th edition, Hoboken NJ: Wiley

    2. Young (1993) Vector and Tensor Analysis, New York NY: Marcel Dekker

    3. Wunsch (2005) Complex Variables with Applications, Sydney: Addison Wesley

    4. Kaplan (2003) Advanced Calculus, 5th edition, Boston: Addison Wesley

    5. Zill & Cullen (2005) Differential Equations with Boundary Value Problems, 6th edition, Southbank, Victoria: Thomson Brooks/Cole

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    Risk assessment statement

    There are no-out-of-the ordinary risks associated with this unit. Students will be advised of the relevant emergency evacuation procedures, exits and assembly points.

    More information on health and safety can be found at http://www.hrd.qut.edu.au/healthsafety/

    Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

    Last modified: 19-Oct-2012