Math 123, Ordinary Differential Equations

Math 123: Information from the Instructor

Introduction

In this course, we will learn some of the important aspects of modern qualitative theory for ordinary differential equations.

Many physical phenomena are governed by differential equations. In this course our main goal is to study stability theory and ODE applications in modern engineering and physics.

This information document covers the following subjects: how to contact the staff, prerequisites, textbooks, course work and grading, late penalties.

If you have a general question about something that is NOT covered here, or if you wish to talk with me, the easiest way is to come during office hours. Otherwise, please make an appointment by sending the staff electronic mail.

Staff

Instructor Prof. Ming Gu
Office: Evans 861
Office Hours: MF 11:00AM-12:00Noon; W 1:00-2:00PM; or by appointment.
Phone: 642-3145
Email: mgu@math

Prerequisites

The prerequisite is Math 104 or equivalent. If you have doubts about them, please come talk with the instructor.

Textbooks

Our textbook is

F. Brauer and J. A. Nohel, The Qualitative Theory of Ordinary Differential Equations: An Introduction, Dover Publications, 1989.

Course Work and Grading

There are a total of 100 points you can earn toward your final grade in the course. There will be two midterm exams. The better of the two is worth 25 points and the worse 15 points. The final exam is worth 30 points. All exams will be graded by myself. In addition to exams, there will be up to 14 homeworks. Only the best 10 homeworks will be counted towards the final grade, with each homework worth 3 points. Homeworks are in general due on Mondays. In case of a holiday, they are due the following Wednesday.

Here are the exam dates:

Midterm I: Sept. 23, Wednesday in class.
Midterm II: Oct. 26, Monday in class.
Final: 5:00-8:00PM, Thursday, Dec. 17.

Homeworks will involve written assignments to be done individually. Your final letter grade will be determined based on the class performance curve , which is based on the number of points you earned in the course. In general well over 1/3 of the class will get A level grades, about 1/3 B grades, and less than 1/3 C grades or worse.

Grades of Incomplete will be granted only for dire medical or personal emergencies that cause you to miss the final, and only if your work up to that point has been satisfactory.

To obtain an early report of your grade, leave a stamped, self-addressed postcard with your final or in my mail box. I will only post the class performance curve after the final exam.

Lateness

We will give no credit for written homework turned in after the due date and there will be no make up exams. In case of medical or personal emergencies, it is possible to make individual arrangements. Come see me as soon as possible if you are in such a situation.