Syllabus
Updated 1/8/24 The details listed in the syllabus are subject to change during the term.
Course: Math 217
Title: Topics in Applied Mathematics: Calculus of Variations and their applications
Credit Hours: 4
Catalog Description: The course offers a friendly introduction to the theory of Calculus of Variations and their applications. The course begins with simple one-dimensional convex problems and progresses to address multi-dimensional nonconvex problems. Covered theoretical aspects include the existence of solutions, variational formulations, and Gamma-convergence. Applications span diverse areas such as minimal surfaces, solid mechanics and elasticity, phase transition, and image processing.
Textbook: There is no required textbook. Recommended readings include: Introduction to the Calculus of Variations by Bernard Dacorogna. Imperial College Press, 2004. Gamma-Convergence for Beginners by Andrea Braides. Oxford University Press, 2002. Mathematical Foundations of Elasticity Theory - Lecture notes by John Ball https://people.maths.ox.ac.uk/ball/Teaching/Mathematical_Foundations_of_Elasticity_Theory.pdf Variational Methods with Applications in Science and Engineering by Kevin W. Cassell. Cambridge University Press, 2013.
Lecture: Lectures will be delivered in person at APM 7218. Lectures will also be recorded and made available on Podcast .
Grading: Your grade in the course is based on your project and your 20-minute project presentation during the last week of classes. The topic of your project should be decided in consultation with the instructor.