Math 467/567 - Scientific Computation - Spring 2010
Dr. Radu C. Cascaval

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Syllabus

Homework

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Notes

Matlab codes

567 Projects

Course Description

This course provides description and analysis of algorithms used for numerical solutions of partial differential equations of importance in science and engineering. The main emphasis is on theoretical analysis, but some practical computations are included. Prer., MATH 235, MATH 313, MATH 340, and CS 115 or equivalent .

The course material (selected sections from Chapter 1-7 in Morton & Mayers book and from other sources) will cover several methods and techniques used numerical approximation of partial differential equations. Matlab illustrations will be provided during the lectures. This course has an E-companion site, for access to grades, solutions to HMW problems, handouts and other important announcements.

Textbook:

Numerical Solution of Partial Differential Equations: An Introduction, 2nd edition
by K. W. Morton & D. F. Mayers, Cambridge University Press 2005, ISBN 9780521607933
(see it on amazon.com)

Supplementary readings:

An Introduction to Scientific Computing. Twelve Compoutational Projects Solved with MATLAB,
by I. Danaila, P. Joly, S.M. Kaber, M. Postel, Sringer 2007
(FREE* download for UCCS students on Springerlink.com)
Book website (contains MATLAB codes)

Scientific Computing with MATLAB and Octave, 2nd Edition,
by A.Quarteroni, F. Saleri, Springer, 2006
(FREE* download for UCCS students on Springerlink.com)

[*You must be on a campus computer to be able to freely download individual chapters of the books. You may also purchase a paperback copy of these books for $24.95 including shipping and handling]

Computer software:

Many of the problems discussed in class and those assigned for homework will require the effective use of a computer. MATLAB is the software of choice during our class; no prior experience with MATLAB is expected. The best way to learn how to use MATLAB is through examples; some will be given in class, others will be suggested outside class. Although mastering MATLAB is NOT one of our goals in this class, you are expected to be able to read and understand the codes I provide and modify them for your needs. If you feel you will need extra help with this, you may consider taking MATH 265, a 1-credit hour course, offered Wed at 12:15-1:05pm.Please note that although this is not a prerequisite for Math 467/567, it has been designed for students like you who may need a more systematic introduction to MATLAB.

MATLAB is freely accessible to students in most computer labs accross campus (including EN 136, 233 and the Library), thanks to a campus-wide site license. You can also access MATLAB remotely, see instructions here. Student versions are available for purchase ($99) in the UCCS bookstore and online. A MATLAB tutor will be available several hours a week (TBA) in EN 136 throughout the semester.

Homework:

Bi-weekly assignments will reflect the material covered in class and will be usually due every other Wednesday, unless otherwise specified. Late homework is strongly discouraged and usually only considered in special circumstances, for partial credit. Additional problems and projects will be assigned for independent work.

Grading:

The course grade will be based on the cumulative score from homework (200 pts), the midterm (150 pts) and the final (150 pts). Maximum score for Math 467 students 500 points. 60% of 500 guarantee a passing grade. For the students enrolled in Math 567, there will be a project (worth 100 points) due at the end of the class. Project topics will be suggested by the instructor in the first two weeks of classes. Students will need to choose a topic and present a progress report after Spring break.

Exams:

Midterm Exam: Wed, March 31
Final Exam: Wed, May 12, 4:30-7:00pm

Other policies:

To make the most of your class, you are required to attend every class session. Students should notify (in advance) the instructor if they need to miss more than one session. Supporting documentation may be required. Drop dates: Please seek counseling from the Dean's office before dropping any course and note the following important dates: Feb 3 – last day to drop and receive a full tuition refund; Apr 2 – last day to drop without special permission from the Dean.

Academic Dishonesty:

Academic honesty is fundamental to the activities and principles of a university. All members of the academic community must be confident that each person's work has been responsibly and honorably acquired, developed, and presented. Any effort to gain an advantage not given to all students is dishonest whether or not the effort is successful. The academic community regards academic dishonesty as an extremely serious matter, with serious consequences that range from probation to expulsion. When in doubt about plagiarism, paraphrasing, quoting, or collaboration, consult the course instructor.

Disability Services:

Students with disabilities should contact the Office of Disability Services (Main Hall 105, 262-3354) and also notify the instructor of any special needs. They should provide a letter of certification from the Office of Disability Services within the first 2 weeks of classes.