Course Description

This is a first course in Ordinary Differential Equations. The material includes separation of variables; integrating factors and exact differential equations; systems of linear differential equations; eigenvalues and eigenvectors; the method of variation of parameters; the Laplace transform; systems of nonlinear differential equations, and conservation laws.

For a more detailed syllabus see the schedule of topics.

Prerequisites

  • Single Variable Calculus (Math 19-20-21, or 41-42, or equivalent).
  • Some techniques of integration.
  • Linear maps and their matrices.
  • Eigen values and eigen vectors.
  • Vector spaces, basis of a vector space.
  • Null space of a linear map.

Text:

 Differential Equations: An Introduction to Modern Methods and Applications, by Brannan and Boyce.
The text is required and is available at the bookstore.

Grades:    

 Grades will be based on the following components:
  • Homeworks: 16%
  • Two midterms: 22% each
  • Final Exam: 40%