MTH 442
Introduction to Difference Equations

Course Information and Syllabus, Spring 2016

Text:   M. R. S. Kulenovic and Orlando Merino,  Discrete Dynamical Systems and Difference Equations with Mathematica
Chapman&Hall/CRC Press, 2002. www.amazon.com    

Lecture Notes  by   M. R. S. Kulenovic and O. Merino 

Prerequisites:  MTH 142, 243

About the Course: This course is an introduction to the basic concepts and techniques of difference equations for advanced undergraduates and beginning graduate students. Difference equations appear in situations where the (n + 1)st generation (or state) of a system depends upon some previous generations (or states). Such equations also appear naturally as discrete analogues of differential equations, and as numerical solutions of differential equations that model various diverse phenomena in biology, ecology, physiology, physics, engineering, economics, and other areas. In addition to performing mathematical analysis of difference equations, with the aid of a Computer Algebra System (Mathematica) you will experiment with difference equations, and discover that such equations possess fascinating properties with a great amount of structure. Some of these computer observations may be cast as theorems that you discover and prove!

Topics:

1.      Introduction to Difference Equations

2.      First order Difference Equations

3.      Linear equations with constant coefficients and variable coefficients

4.      Stability in both hyperbolic and nonhyperbolic cases, bifurcations  

5.      Linear theory for two dimensional systems of difference equations,

6.      Equilibrium solutions, stability, periodic solutions

7.      Period-doubling bifurcation

8.      Global dynamics for second order difference equations.

Exams and Grading:

Course grade will be determined based on homework,  quizzes, mid-term and final exams, Mathematica  projects and the final project. 

The exams could be in part of the take home variety.

TWO TESTS: 50 percent 

Mathematica PROJECTS, QUIZZES, AND HOMEWORK: 30 percent

FINAL PROJECT: 20 percent 

Computer Requirements

The use of computer algebra systems Mathematica is required. Mathematica worksheets dealing with the different problems in theory will be provided and demonstrated in the class. The textbooks comes with the simulation package Dynamica  which will be used for all simulation purposes. No programming is needed.

Instructor: Dr. M. Kulenovic                               Office: Lippitt 202D

Phone: 874-4436                                                     e-mailkulenm@math.uri.edu
Online information: www.math.uri.edu/courses or www.math.uri.edu/~kulenm

Office hours: M,F: 10-11; W:1-2  and by appointment. 

Time:  M,W,F: 11-11:50

Place: Bliss 304  

Illness Due to Flu 

The nation is experiencing widespread influenza-like illness. If any of us develop flu-like symptoms, we are being advised to stay home until the fever has subsided for 24 hours.  So, if you exhibit such symptoms, please do not come to class. Notify me at 874-xxxx or xxx@uri.edu of your status, and we will communicate through the medium we have established for the class. We will work together to ensure that course instruction and work is completed for the semester.

 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have posted simple methods to avoid transmission of illness.  These include: covering your mouth and nose with tissue when coughing or sneezing; frequent washing or sanitizing your hands; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; and staying home when you are sick.  For more information please view www.cdc.gov/flu or flu.gov .  URI Health Services web page, www.health.uri.edu , will carry advice and local updates.

 

Useful links: 

1.  Difference Equations at URI

2.  The Dynamical Systems at Boston University

3.  Sprott's gateway

4.  Fractint