Key facts
UNE unit code: PMTH439
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Differential equations are one of the most prevalent sets of methods for modelling real world phenomena across science and engineering, with applications in areas including biology, chemistry, physics, geoscience, sports science, economics, and finance.
Differential equation models range in complexity from simple, through to complex models for the motion of fluids, such as the violent storms in Jupiter’s atmosphere and the coordinated motion of groups of animals.
As a natural extension of calculus, this unit offers you qualitative and quantitative methods for ordinary and partial differential equations. You will explore first order equations, second order linear equations, series solutions, boundary value problems and phase plane analysis.
Studying this unit, you will develop practical foundational knowledge of differential equations that is invaluable for further study in mathematics and the life and physical sciences.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
It is recommended students have completed PMTH333 or an equivalent unit prior to enrolling in this unit.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- exercise advanced skills in solving differential equations, including first order and second order ordinary differential equations, and some special cases of partial differential equations;
- use simple differential equations to see how practical problems can be modelled and solved in mathematics;
- synthesise knowledge from calculus and linear algebra through their use in solving standard differential equations and systems; and
- understand some of the mathematical theory behind numerical simulation techniques.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 01 | Yes | 1% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
| Assessment 02 | Yes | 1% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
| Assessment 03 | Yes | 1% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
| Assessment 04 | Yes | 1% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
| Assessment 05 | Yes | 1% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
| Assessment 06 | Yes | 1% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
| Assessment 07 | Yes | 1% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
| Assessment 08 | Yes | 1% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
| Assessment 09 | Yes | 1% | All offerings | Problem-based assignment. |
| Assessment 10 | Yes | 11% | All offerings | Advanced problem-based assignment. |
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 80% | All offerings | It is mandatory to pass this examination in order to pass this unit. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Elementary Differential Equations and Boundary Value Problems
ISBN: 9781119820512
Boyce, W.E., DiPrima R.C. and Meade D.B., Wiley 12th ed. 2022
Text refers to: All offerings
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