This course provides an in depth exposition of the theory of differential equations and vector calculus. Applications will be related to problems mainly from the Physical Sciences. Topics to be covered include: Ordinary Differential Equations - Linear and non-linear first order differential equations; second order linear equations; initial and boundary value problems; Green's functions; power series solutions and special functions; systems of first and second order equations; normal modes of oscillation; nonlinear differential equations; stability of solutions; existence and uniqueness of solutions; Advanced Vector Calculus - Curves and surfaces in three dimensions; parametric representations; curvilinear coordinate systems; Surface and volume integrals; use of Jacobians; gradient, divergence and curl; identities involving vector differential operators; the Laplacian; Green’s and Stokes’ theorems. Note: This is an HPC, taught at a level requiring greater conceptual understanding than MATH2305. |