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MT4005   Linear and Nonlinear Waves

Academic year(s): 2019-2020

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Not automatically available to General Degree students

Planned timetable: 11.00 am Mon (even weeks), Tue and Thu

This module gives an introduction to wave motion and its importance in many areas of applied mathematics. It begins with a discussion of the linear approximation for small amplitude waves and discusses properties of these such as dispersion relations, phase and group velocities, dissipation and dispersion. Some nonlinear effects such as wave steepening are then treated and an introduction given to some of the equations, for example Burger's and Korteweg de Vries, which are used to model nonlinear wave propagation.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must ( pass MT2506 or pass PH3081 ) and ( pass MT3503 or pass MT3504 )

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2.5 lectures (x 10 weeks) and 1 tutorial (x 10 weeks).

Scheduled learning hours: 35

Guided independent study hours: 115

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 100%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 0%

Re-assessment: 2-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr A N Wright
Module teaching staff: Dr Andrew Wright