Math 350 - Applied Partial Differential Equations

Credits: 3

Course Description: Applied Partial Differential Equations is an introduction to the basic properties of partial differential equations and to some of the techniques that have been developed to analyze the solutions to these equations.  The equations that describe the dynamics of waves, diffusion, flow and vibrations will be the main focus of this course.  Initial value and boundary value problems of first and second-order equations will be considered.  A geometric and analytic analysis of the solutions to these equations will be explored. Specific topics covered include classification of partial differential equations, well posed problems, the maximum principles for the diffusion equation and Laplace’s equation, Dirichlet, Neumann and Robin boundary conditions, the method of characteristic coordinates, and separation of variables.  The theory of Fourier Series will be introduced to the student and used to approximate solutions to inhomogeneous boundary value problems using the expansion method.  Additional topics specific to the instructor’s preference may be included in the course if time permits.

Pre-Requisites: MATH 240 and MATH 260 and MATH 310.

Frequency: This course is offered as demand requires.

Current Textbook:
Required Text: Partial Differential Equations an Introduction, Second Edition by Walter A. Strauss
Supplemental Reading: Applied Partial Differential Equations by Richard Haberman
Check with your instructor to make sure this is the textbook used for your section.