Math 385 - Introduction to Mathematical Modeling

Class: MW 2:30PM - 3:45PM in Fine Arts 303 (1/27-5/13/2025), 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.

1/27 Introduction. 2.1 Mathematical Models.

1/31 2.2 Modeling using proportionality. 2.3 Modeling using geometric similarity. Hw 1 (due 2/5).

2/3 2.3 Modeling using geometric similarity. 2.4 Automobile gasoline mileage.

2/5 2.4 Automobile gasoline mileage. 3.1 Fitting models to data graphically. Hw 2 (due 2/12).

2/10 3.3-I Applying the least-squares criterion.

2/12 3.3-II Applying the least-squares criterion. Hw 3 (due 2/19, extension 2/24).

2/17 6.1-I Probabilistic modeling with discrete systems.

2/19 6.1-II Probabilistic modeling with discrete systems. Hw 4 (due 2/26).

2/24 7.1 An overview of Optimization modeling.