Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2014 - MATH 125 D100

Introduction to Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences-l (3)

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 2 – Dec 1, 2014: Mon, Wed, Fri, 8:30–9:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 6, 2014
    Sat, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Nilima Nigam
    nna29@sfu.ca
    778.782.4258
    Office: SCK 10509

  • Prerequisites:

    Math 152 or equivalent. Permission of the Department. Corequisite Physics 125.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Review of sequences and series, complex numbers and link to polar coordinates, vectors and parametric curves, introduction to multivariate integration, solution of first and second order ODE, linear independence, introduction to Fourier Series. Approximation algorithms for simple ODE systems.

COURSE DETAILS:

Review of differential and integral calculus with a focus on applications to kinematics.
  • Limits.
  • Differentiation, including the chain rule.
  • Integration, including substitutions and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.
  • Sequences, series, Taylor Series.
Introduction to complex numbers. 
  • Elementary operations with complex numbers.
  • Link between complex representation, polar and Cartesian coordinate systems.
  • Link between complex numbers, phase and amplitude of waves.
Mathematics of kinematics.
  • Introduction to vectors in Rn
  • Parametrization of curves in Cartesian, polar and spherical coordinates. Velocity and acceleration via differentiation.
  • Introduction to multivariate integration. Work and energy.
Solution of simple constant-coefficient ODEs of orders one and two. 
  • Exponential growth and decay.
  • Simple harmonic motion.
  • Damped harmonic oscillators.
  • Linear independence of solutions.
  • Introduction to Fourier series.
  • Driven Oscillators.
  • Basic ODE approximation algorithms.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Course aims: 
The goal of this course is to provide students with an introduction to mathematical
concepts which are frequently used in the physical sciences. The course will be tightly coordinated with
Physics 125. The emphasis is on a formal introduction to the material.

Grading

  • Assignments 20%
  • Midterm 30%
  • Final Exam 50%

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS