| Unit name | Calculus of Variations |
|---|---|
| Unit code | MATH30005 |
| Credit points | 10 |
| Level of study | H/6 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1B (weeks 7 - 12) |
| Unit director | Dr. Slastikov |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
MATH20015 Multivariable Calculus and Complex Functions and MATH20101 Ordinary Differential Equations 2 |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | School of Mathematics |
| Faculty | Faculty of Science |
Unit Aims
To introduce students to the calculus of variation, and to illustrate its use in the solution of some elementary problems arising in mathematics and in physics.
Unit Description
Some simple problems typical of the subject are as follows: Amongst all the curves joining two given points on a manifold (such as the plane, or the sphere), find the one of shortest length; for a given perimeter, find the planar shape of largest area. Calculus of Variations develops the tools necessary to answer such questions; it is an important branch of optimisation in which the quantity (the functional) to be minimised depends on infinite-dimensional vectors that may for instance represent curves or surfaces. The subject has deep connections with various fields in the natural sciences, including differential geometry, ordinary and partial differential equations, materials science, mathematical biology, etc. It is one of the oldest and yet one of the most used tools for the investigation of problems involving the concept of "free energy". The aims of this course are (1) to cover the basics of the calculus of variations, including the one-variable case, and (2) to illustrate the theory by considering various applications arising in the natural sciences.
Relation to Other Units
The unit builds on Calculus 1, Linear Algebra and Geometry 1, and Multivariable Calculus. In terms of the mathematics involved, it is also closely connected with other units that pertain to differential and partial differential equations.
After taking this unit, students will:
The unit will be taught through a combination of
100% Timed, open-book examination
Raw scores on the examinations will be determined according to the marking scheme written on the examination paper. The marking scheme, indicating the maximum score per question, is a guide to the relative weighting of the questions. Raw scores are moderated as described in the Undergraduate Handbook.
If this unit has a Resource List, you will normally find a link to it in the Blackboard area for the unit. Sometimes there will be a separate link for each weekly topic.
If you are unable to access a list through Blackboard, you can also find it via the Resource Lists homepage. Search for the list by the unit name or code (e.g. MATH30005).
How much time the unit requires
Each credit equates to 10 hours of total student input. For example a 20 credit unit will take you 200 hours
of study to complete. Your total learning time is made up of contact time, directed learning tasks,
independent learning and assessment activity.
See the Faculty workload statement relating to this unit for more information.
Assessment
The Board of Examiners will consider all cases where students have failed or not completed the assessments required for credit.
The Board considers each student's outcomes across all the units which contribute to each year's programme of study. If you have self-certificated your absence from an
assessment, you will normally be required to complete it the next time it runs (this is usually in the next assessment period).
The Board of Examiners will take into account any extenuating circumstances and operates
within the Regulations and Code of Practice for Taught Programmes.
