Math 220

Math 220 - Applied Differential Equations, Spring 2020

This is an introductory course in differential equations. Generally speaking, these are equations involving functions and their derivatives in a variety of different ways.

Apart from their intrinsic mathematical interest, differential equations are tremendously important from the point of view of applications, since they govern a wide range of phenomena and processes arising in everyday life. From fluid motion (rogue waves) to electromagnetism (Faraday's law), and from population dynamics (logistic equation) to finance and economics (Black-Scholes model), differential equations dominate almost every area of science and engineering.

Prerequisites: MATH 122 or MATH 142, or MATH 126 or MATH 146 with grade of C- or higher; previous or concurrent enrollment in MATH 290 or MATH 291 recommended.

Use the links on the top of the page to navigate through useful information and resources related to the course.

Lectures

When: Tue. Thu. 11:00 – 12:15
Instructor: Dionyssis Mantzavinos
Office hours: Tue. Thu. 14:00 – 15:00

Teaching Assistant: Ryan Frier
Office hours: Mon. Thu. 10:00 – 11:00, Tue. 16:00 – 17:00, Wed. 9:00 – 11:00

Homework

It is extremely important that you put your best effort towards producing quality homework, since homework is an integral part of the learning process, especially in mathematics. You should keep in mind that you will be rewarded not only for getting your answers right but also, importantly, for the structure and the presentation of your solutions. 

You are more than welcome to seek help from me or your classmates, but I highly recommend that you first attempt seriously each problem on your own. Struggling through an exercise is a common thing in mathematics; in fact, this is the way to understand the material in depth and make it your own, rather than just memorizing a bunch of "nonsense" tricks. 

Homework will be collected in class every Thursday, unless stated otherwise below. Please note that no late homework will be accepted.

Exams

Academic honesty: Exams are bound by the KU Academic Integrity Values. I strongly encourage you to read this information carefully.

  • Exam 1: Thursday, February 20, during class.
  • Exam 2: Thursday, April 9, during class.
  • Final Exam: Tuesday, May 12, 10:30-13:00 in 120 Snow Hall.

Out-of-class Reviews

  • Review for Exam 1: Wednesday, February 19, 16:00-18:00, 120 Snow Hall.
  • Review for Exam 2: TBA
  • Review for Final Exam: TBA

Grading

The assessment for this course will be done according to the following scheme:

  • Midterm Exams (2): 100 points each
  • Final Exam: 150 points
  • Homework: 100 points
  • Class Participation/Quizzes: 50 points

for a total of 500 points.