Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2021-2022 (archived)

Module MATH3291: PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS III

Department: Mathematical Sciences

MATH3291: PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS III

Type Open Level 3 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2021/22 Module Cap Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Analysis in Many Variables II (MATH2031) and one extra 20 credit Level 2 mathematics module; alternatively Analysis in Many Variables II (MATH2031) and Analysis I (MATH1051) (if taken in Year 2).

Corequisites

  • One 20 credit Level 3 mathematics module.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • Partial Differential Equations IV (MATH4041)

Aims

  • To develop an understanding of the theory and methods of solution for Partial Differential Equations.

Content

  • First order equations and characteristics.Conservation laws and their weak solutions.
  • Systems of first-order equations and Riemann invariants.
  • Hyperbolic systems and their weak solutions
  • Classification of general second order PDEs
  • Poisson,Laplace, Heat and Wave equations:existence and properties of solutions

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • By the end of the module students will:
  • be able to solve problems in Partial Differential Equations;
  • have an understanding of theoretical mathematics in the field of Partial Differential Equations;
  • have mastered a coherent body of knowledge of these subjects demonstrated through one or more of the following topic areas:
  • Solution of first order equations and systems.
  • Classification of second order PDEs, and their solutions.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Students will have highly specialised and advanced mathematical skills in the following areas: Modelling and Analysis of PDEs
Key Skills:
  • Students will have an appreciation of important Partial Differential Equations and their fundamental properties.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Lectures demonstrate what is required to be learned and the application of the theory to practical examples.
  • Assignments for self-study develop problem-solving skills and enable students to test and develop their knowledge and understanding.
  • Formatively assessed assignments provide practice in the application of logic and high level of rigour as well as feedback for the students and the lecturer on students' progress.
  • The end-of-year examination assesses the knowledge acquired and the ability to solve predictable and unpredictable problems.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 42 2 per week for 20 weeks and 2 in term 3 1 Hour 42
Problems Classes 8 Four in each of terms 1 and 2 1 Hour 8
Preparation and Reading 150
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Written examination 3 Hours 100%

Formative Assessment:

Eight written assignments to be assessed and returned. Other assignments are set for self-study and complete solutions are made available to students.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University