HW problems: HW1, HW2, HW3, HW4, HW5, HW6, HW7, HW8, HW9, HW10, HW11, HW12
Disc problems: Dis1, Dis2, Dis3, Dis4, Dis5, Dis6, Dis7, Dis8, Dis9, Dis10, Dis11, Dis12This course is an introduction to the mathematical methods required for the upper division physics courses. It is a prerequisite for PY408, PY405/6, PY451/2 (Mechanics, E&M, Quantum Mechanics). Prerequisites for this course are PY251 and PY252 (or PY211 and PY212) and MA225 ( if you do not fulfil these prerequisites you must obtain my permission to take the course ).
The course starts with elements of Linear Algebra which commonly occur in Physics : vectors and vector calculus, matrices, matrix algebra and matrix transformations, rotations, similarity, unitarity, hermiticity, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors. We then cover Multivariate Calculus: (partial) differentiation and integration, vector analysis. This allows us to discuss first and second order ordinary differential equations. Partial differential equations (waves, heat, Schroedinger) and series solutions of differential equations. If there is time we will also introduce elements of complex analysis such as analyticity, Cauchy's theorem and contour integration.
The schedule is available here.
The textbook for the course is
It is on sale at the bookstore.
There will be two midterms and one final exam. The final grade will be based 30% on the homework, 20% on each midterm, and 30% on the final exam.
Academic conduct: You are expected to be familiar with and adhere to the College's Academic Conduct Code. Cheating on exams or other course work will not be tolerated. The homework and labs you turn in must be your own work. Evidence of cheating will be treated in accordance with CAS Academic Conduct procedures.
Copyright: Materials used in this class are copyrighted by Boston University and/or Prof. Schmaltz (more information).
| Lectures: |
Prof. Martin Schmaltz |
Graders: |
Chris Serino, Zhiqiang Su |
| Email: |
schmaltz(at)bu.edu |
Email: |
cserino(at)buphy.bu.edu, zqsu(at)buphy.bu.edu |
| Room: |
PRB 577 |
Room: |
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| Phone: |
8-3058 |
Phone: |
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| Offc hrs: |
We 3-4, Th 4-6 or stop by any day except Friday |
Offc hrs: |
Mo 3-5 or by appointment |
URL: http://physics.bu.edu/~schmaltz/py355