Physics and astronomy

Mathematical Methods for Physics 1

Module code: F3201
Level 4
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Workshop, Lecture
Assessment modes: Unseen examination, Coursework

Topics covered include:

  • vectors
  • functions
  • differentiation
  • stationary points, local/global minima/maxima; graph sketching
  • integration
  • power series
  • complex numbers
  • matrices and determinants.

Computer algebra examples will be embedded throughout.

Module learning outcomes

  • A successful student should be able to: perform basic algebraic manipulations involving trigonometric, exponential, hyperbolic or logarithmic functions.
  • Differentiate and integrate standard functions and products and ratios of them, sketch curves of functions, and derive the series expansions.
  • Use and manipulate complex numbers and vectors, perform elementary operations with determinants and matrices.
  • Use computer algebra to solve simple mathematical problems