Math 385 - Introduction to Mathematical Modeling

Class: MW 5:30PM - 6:45PM in SOND 108 (8/27-12/9/2025), Instructor: Bedrich Sousedik

This is a project-oriented course offering the opportunity to discover how various real-world problems can be described and analyzed with the aid of simple mathematical models and computer simulations. Possible project topics include operation of a fuse, spread of pollutants in a river, propagation of an infectious disease, traffic flow on a highway, oscillating chemical reactions, population growth in biology, etc.

Prerequisite: MATH 225 or MATH 355 with a grade of 'C' or better.

The detailed class syllabus (pdf) is here. However, look below to see the actual progress of the class.

8/27 Introduction. 2.1 Mathematical Models.

9/1 Labor Day (no class).

9/3 2.2 Modeling using proportionality. 2.3 Modeling using geometric similarity. Hw 1 (due 9/15).

9/8 2.3 Modeling using geometric similarity. 2.4 Automobile gasoline mileage.

9/10 2.4 Automobile gasoline mileage. 3.1 Fitting models to data graphically.

9/15 3.3-I Applying the least-squares criterion. Hw 2 (due 9/22).

9/17 3.3-II Applying the least-squares criterion. Hw 3 (due 10/1).

9/22 6.1-I Probabilistic modeling with discrete systems.

9/24 6.1-II Probabilistic modeling with discrete systems. Hw 4 (due 10/6).

9/29 7.1 An overview of optimization modeling. Hw 5 (due 10/8).

10/1 7.2 Linear programming I: Geometric solutions.