Mathematics 231: Ordinary Differential Equations (Fall 2002)
Instructor:
Dave Schaeffer
Description:
Theory for existence (local and global), uniqueness,
and continuous dependence on parameters. Linear equations with constant or
periodic coefficients. Stability of equilibria and periodic orbits.
Bifurcation theory: local (steady state and Hopf) and global (homoclinic).
An example of chaos (the Lorenz attractor).
This course is normally taken by all first year graduate students in
mathematics. Students outside of Mathematics are welcome. The format of
the course makes it fairly easy to accomodate a variety of
backgrounds. Please see the instructor if you are concerned whether your
background will be sufficient for the course.
Prerequisites:
Math 103 (Multiple-variable calculus), Math 104
(Linear algebra), and Math 139 (Analysis). A previous course in ODE is
useful but not required.
Text:
Differential Equations and Dynamical Systems by Lawrence Perko
Course Website:
For more information see Professor Schaeffer.
Return to:
Course List *
Math Graduate Program *
Department of Mathematics *
Duke University
Last modified: 27 March 2002