MA 342

Numerical Computing and Visualization

Mark Parker

T, 11:00 - 12:15, Simperman 120

Th, 11:00 - 12:15, Simperman 147

Introduction

This course will branch beyond the problems we have encountered in previous courses, which, believe it or not, were fairly easily solved by exact techniques. We will examine approximation techniques for numerically solving real-world problems arising in engineering, the physical and life sciences, the social sciences, and computer science. My goal for the course is that you will understand how to apply these techniques, when they are appropriate, and how to interpret the results.

We will use Mathematica quite frequently in this course, rather than spending time learning a traditional programming language. To expand our knowledge of Mathematica and its capabilities, we will usually spend one day a week (Thursday) in the Computer lab (Room 147). Stay tuned in class to see where we meet.

Text

Numerical Methods for Engineers with Software and Programming Applications, Fourth Edition

Chapra and Canale

McGraw-Hill

Grading

Your grade will translate to a letter grade as follows :

• A 90% or better
• B 80% or better
• C 70% or better
• D 60% or better
• F otherwise