18.311 Principles of Applied Mathematics, Spring 2003

Abstract

Introduction to fundamental concepts in "continuous" applied mathematics. Extensive use of demonstrational software. Discussion of computational and modelling issues. Nonlinear dynamical systems; nonlinear waves; diffusion; stability; characteristics; nonlinear steepening, breaking and shock formation; conservation laws; first-order partial differential equations; finite differences; numerical stability; etc. Applications to traffic problems, flows in rivers, internal waves, mechanical vibrations and other problems in the physical world.