MA2121 Differential Equations

Ordinary differential equations: linear and nonlinear (first order) equations, homogeneous and non-homogeneous equations, linear independence of solutions, power series solutions, systems of differential equations, Laplace transforms. Applications include radioactive decay, elementary mechanics, mechanical and electrical oscillators, forced oscillations and resonance.

Prerequisite

MA1114

Lecture Hours

4

Lab Hours

0

Course Learning Outcomes

• Classify a differential equation in terms of ordinary/partial, order, linearity.
• Verify a solution by substitution into the equation.
• Explain the difference between the general solution to a differential equation and the unique solution to an initial value problem (IVP).
• Determine whether a first- or second-order linear IVP has a unique solution over a given interval.
• Apply initial conditions to a general solution to find the unique solution.