Math 551

General Information

• Instructor: Nathaniel Whitaker
• Mailing Address: Department of Math and Stat, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Ma 01003
• Phone: 413-545-1572(Office), 413-545-1801(FAX)
• email: whitaker@math.umass.edu
• Office: 1424 Lederle Graduate Research Tower
• Office hours: TBA.
• Text: Numerical Analysis, Timothy Sauer
• The following is a brief outline: We cover computer arithmetic and error analysis, nonlinear equations, linear systems, interpolation, numerical integration, linear systems, least squares and numerical methods for ordinary differential equations. We are concerned about methods and understanding why they work. We will discuss applications for which these ideas are useful.
• Prerequisites: Advanced Calculus and Linear Algebra or consent of instructor.
• There will be homeworks, programs, 1 midterm exams and a final exam. The midterm exam counts for 25 per cent each, the final counts 25 percent and the homeworks and programs make up the other 50 per cent. We will use MATLAB for most of your assignments. The homework and programs are due on the due date. If it is late, 10 per cent will be deducted. It will not be accepted after 2 days past the due date.
• It is expected that you work hard and attend class.