module specification

MA5052 - Differential Equations (2024/25)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2024/25
Module title Differential Equations
Module level Intermediate (05)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Computing and Digital Media
Total study hours 150
 
105 hours Guided independent study
45 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
In-Course Test 30%   Test 1 (1 hour, unseen)
Unseen Examination 70%   Exam ( 2 hours, unseen)
Running in 2024/25

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
Period Campus Day Time Module Leader
Spring semester North Wednesday Morning

Module summary

The module extends the students’ knowledge of the techniques of calculus and introduces the concept of differential equations.

This module aims to give students a thorough understanding of the analytical techniques available to solve first and second order ordinary differential equations.

Prior learning requirements

None.

Available for Study Abroad? NO

Syllabus

Revision of first order ordinary differential equations: integrating factor method, separation of variables. 

Second order ordinary differential equations with constant coefficients. 

Second order ordinary differential equations of general, linear non-homogeneous form: reduction of order method. 

Euler's differential equation: elementary solution techniques about singular points.

Series solution methods: series expansion about an ordinary point. 

Laplace Transform method: solution of 1st and 2nd order differential equations.

(LO1-LO5) 

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

Students’ learning is directed via face-to-face learning activities centred on lectures and seminars. There is full provision of documents related to the module in electronic format that can be accessed by students at all times. The documents include lecture notes, slides, guidance to further reading and relevant mathematical packages, and exercises and tests.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

LO1. Solve first order ordinary differential equations.

LO2. Solve second order ordinary differential equations with constant coefficients, involving initial value problems.

LO3. Solve second order linear ordinary differential equations by the method of reduction of order.

LO4. Solve Euler’s Equation, including solutions about singular points.

LO5. Solve first and second order ordinary differential equations by the Laplace Transform method.

Bibliography

Core Text:

Boyce, WE and Di Prima, RC (2012) Elementary Differential Equations John Wiley

Recommended Reading:

Robinson, (2004) An Introduction to Ordinary Differential Equations, CUP

Earl A. Coddington, (1990), An Introduction to Ordinary Differential Equations, Dover Books on Mathematics