Math 404 - Numerical Methods

Topics covered:
Calculus of finite differences, numerical interpolation, solutions of nonlinear equations and systems of nonlinear equations, convergence methods, polynomial approximation and splines, numerical integration, optimization, systems of ordinary differential equations. Computers will be used for more complicated procedures. Useful as preparation for one of the actuarial exams.

Time: WF 4:00-5:30pm (Rm 216 Cupples I)

Prerequisites:

Math 1201, 217, and 309.

FINAL:

May 8, 1:00-3:00 PM, Rm 199 Cupples I

Links:

Course schedule
Homework Assignments
Sample C Programs and Graphics
Click here for Stanley Sawyer's home page

Professor:

Prof. S. Sawyer - Cupples I, Room 107
Phone: (314) 935-6703 -- FAX: (314) 863-1302
Email: sawyer@math.wustl.edu

Textbook:

John H. Matthews, Numerical Methods for Mathematics, Science, and Engineering, 2nd edition, Prentice Hall, 1992.

Exams, Homework Sets, and Grades:

There will be approximately 12 homework sets, two quizzes, and a final. The quizzes will be on Friday, Feb. 13 and Friday, April 3. Each of the four units (with the homework counted together as a single unit) will count equally towards the final grade. If you elect ``Credit/No Credit'' or ``Pass/Fail'', then Cr or Pass means D or better. Collaboration on homework is permitted (and encouraged).
Problems will occasionally require a complete proof. Homework will be judged for correctness and clarity. When the problem requires a computed solution, it must be accompanied by a correct, well-documented computer program that will be judged for its understandability.

Warning:

Make a copy of each homework before you hand it in!!
It may not be returned before you need to refer to it for the next homework (or for a test).

Computing:
Students are encouraged to write ANSI-standard C programs for problems that require a computer. Computers that can access UNIX C compilers are available through the Arts and Sciences Computing Center in the basement of Cupples I, but other computers and C compilers can be used as well.

NOTE: The answers to many problems in the text are in the back of the book.

Click here for Stanley Sawyer's home page:

Last modified August 9, 1998