Mathematical Methods in Physics
The laws of physics are often expressed as differential equations. This course gives you practical knowledge of differential equations and commonly used systems, as well as how to find exact or approximate solutions to them.
The course focuses on ordinary and partial linear differential equations. Topics covered include analysis with calculus of residues, partial differential equations with separation of variables in cartesian, cylindrical and spherical coordinates, series solutions, construction of linearly independent solutions, inhomogeneous partial differential equations with Greens function techniques, Field equations for heat conduction and diffusion and the wave equation. The Dirac delta function. Fourier integrals. Expansion using orthogonal functions. Orthogonal polynomials. The Bessel and Legendre equations. Special functions: Legendre polynomials, spherical harmonics and Bessel functions, and the Laplace transform and its inverse.
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Course structure
This is an advanced course given during the daytime.
Teaching format
The course consists of both lectures and problem sessions.
Assessment
The course is examined through written examination.
Examiner
Maria Hermanns
Phone: +46 8 553 787 43
E-mail: maria.hermanns@fysik.su.se
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Schedule
The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course. We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course, your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course. -
Course literature
Note that the course literature can be changed up to two months before the start of the course.
Arfken, Weber & Harris: Mathematical Methods for Physicists, 7th edition, Elsevier Academic Press 2012
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Course reports
Här ligger ett skript.
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More information
When can I apply?
Registration is open from mid-March to mid-April for courses that run in the fall, and from mid-September to mid-October for courses that run in the spring.
Please note that many courses open for late registration in mid-July for courses in the autumn term and in mid-December for courses in the spring term.
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Contact
Course coordinator and teacher:
Maria Hermanns, phone: +46 8 553 787 43, e-mail: maria.hermanns@fysik.su.seProblem sessions:
Alexander Fagerlund, e-mail: alexander.fagerlund@fysik.su.seHand-in problems:
Tommasco Bertolini, e-mail: tommaso.bertolini@fysik.su.seAcademic advisor at the Department of Physics: studievagledare@fysik.su.se
Student office: studentexp@fysik.su.se
