MATLAB for Math 20D

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Welcome to the MATLAB component of Math 20D. In this portion of the course, you will learn how to use MATLAB to analyze and solve ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The lab assignments are designed to introduce essential MATLAB commands while also helping you understand how numerical algorithms work behind the scenes. In addition, the labs reinforce key concepts from lecture and illustrate how differential equations arise in real-world applications relevant to science and engineering.

You can use MATLAB for free by creating a MathWorks account with your @ucsd.edu email address. After logging in, you may either download and install MATLAB on your computer or use MATLAB Online directly in your web browser.

To download MATLAB, sign in to your MathWorks account, navigate to the MATLAB product page, and follow the installation instructions for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). MATLAB Online is a good option if you are using a Chromebook or prefer not to install software. If you only have access to a tablet such as an iPad, you can use MATLAB Mobile to run basic commands and view files, although it has limited functionality.

If you are new to MATLAB or would like a guided introduction, you are encouraged to complete an online tutorial such as MATLAB Onramp , which provides a free, interactive introduction to basic MATLAB commands and workflows.

Starting with the second assignment, you will also need to create and manage MATLAB script files (M-files).

In general, each lab is self-contained and can be completed without prior MATLAB experience, although some assignments depend on commands learned in earlier labs.

Assignments	1. Introduction to MATLAB	Due at 11:59pm on Friday, Jan 16 PT
	2. Visualizing Solutions to ODEs	Due at 11:59pm on Friday, Jan 30 PT
	3. Numerical Methods	Due at 11:59pm on Friday, Feb 13 PT
	4. Systems of ODEs	Due at 11:59pm on Friday, Feb 27 PT

Homework should be uploaded to Gradescope by 11:59 pm (San Diego time) on the listed due dates. Each assignment allows a 3-day late submission period, ending at 11:59 pm on Monday. Submissions received after this late period will not be accepted.

When submitting your homework on Gradescope, please make sure to assign the correct pages to each question. Failure to assign pages properly may result in point deductions.

Each assignment is released two weeks before its due date. Please plan your time accordingly and start the assignments early.

Two random exercises will be graded for each assignment.

MATLAB Tutoring

Please refer to the Tutor Hours page for information about MATLAB tutoring and available tutoring hours.

The MATLAB Quiz

During the last week of the quarter, you will have to take a MATLAB quiz.

• You will be tested on your ability to use rudimentary MATLAB commands to solve basic computational problems and on your understanding of topics covered in the lab assignments.
• The quiz will cover Assignments 1 through 4.
• You can make use of gradescope and the course websites but no other websites.
• The quiz is scheduled for one hour, although you most likely will not need the full amount of time.
• Open book and notes. But you may not disclose the exam problems to any other person during the quiz days. Any sign of disclosure will be reported immediately to the Academic Integrity Office.
• The quiz will be offered in Quizzes on Canvas. The problems are in the forms of multiple choices, numerical answers, etc. You don't need to write/scan anything.

Quiz Time

The MATLAB final quiz will be held

11:59 pm PT on Tuesday, March 10 until 11:59 pm PT on Wednesday, March 11

in "Quizzes" section on Canvas.

You can take it whenever the time is convenient for you during the period. The quiz starts the first time you access the quiz and ends after 60 minutes.

We do not offer make-up quizzes if you miss your quiz.