20218 Introduction to Ordinary Differential Equations 1
Credits: 3 intermediate credits in Mathematics
Prerequisites: none
Required: One of the following: Differential and Integral Calculus I, Infinitesimal Calculus I
Recommended: Linear Algebra I
Authors: Eli Levin, Judith Gal-Ezer, Shmuel Berger. The course is based on notes prepared for the Open University by Elhanan Leibowitz.
The course is designed for students who have already taken their first steps in Calculus and are interested in continuing their studies in Computer Science, Natural Sciences, or Engineering. Mathematics students and others with more extensive background in Calculus and Algebra may prefer Ordinary Differential Equations I (20280).
The course introduces basic concepts in the theory of ordinary differential equations and provides hands-on experience in its elementary methods. It enables students to use the techniques of the theory as tools in the physical and technological sciences.
Although familiarity with basic linear algebra (linear equations, Rn, matrices and determinants, complex numbers) is recommended for this course, it is not assumed that students have taken Linear Algebra I (20109); a brief summary of the background material required is provided in appendices.
Topics: First order differential equations; nth order differential equations; Systems of first order differential equations; Existence and uniqueness theorems.
1There is some overlap in the content of this and other courses. For details, see Overlapping Courses.
See also Ordinary Differential Equations I (20280). Please note the difference between these courses in prerequisites and scope.