Numerical Modeling 1 (MAF310)

The course is an introduction to numerical mathematics, with basic theory and methods for solving numerical computational problems with and without the use of computers.


Course description for study year 2025-2026. Please note that changes may occur.

Facts

Course code

MAF310

Version

1

Credits (ECTS)

5

Semester tution start

Autumn

Number of semesters

1

Exam semester

Autumn

Language of instruction

English

Content

Many mathematical problems in science and engineering do not permit simple analytic solutions, necessitating the use of numerical methods. This course provides theoretical insights into fundamental numerical algorithms for problem-solving, along with their practical implementation using the Python programming language. Topics covered include systems of linear equations, interpolation and curve fitting, solutions to nonlinear equations, numerical differentiation and integration, ordinary differential equations, and partial differential equations.

The course runs parallel with MAF320 Numerical Modeling 2, which focuses more on the programming and practical problem-solving aspects of numerical modeling.

Learning outcome

After completing this course, students are expected to:

K1: Have knowledge of key numerical methods, including strategies for constructing and analyzing these methods.

K2: Understand the limitations of numerical methods, such as discretization errors and various instabilities.

F1: Be able to use the Python programming language to solve basic numerical problems using pre-existing algorithms in the NumPy and SciPy packages, with confidence and an understanding of numerical uncertainties.

G1: Master the presentation and communication of computational results using the interactive computing platform Jupyter Notebook.

Required prerequisite knowledge

None

Recommended prerequisites

FYS100 Mechanics, FYS102 Physics for data/electro, MAT200 Mathematical Methods 2, MAT210 Real Analysis
The students who have not taken DAT120 are strongly recommended to take MAF320 in parallel with MAF310.

Exam

Form of assessment Weight Duration Marks Aid
Written exam 1/1 4 Hours Letter grades Approved, basic calculator

Written final exam with pen and paper.

Coursework requirements

Compulsory exercises

Two mandatory assignments; approved/not approved.

Both must be passed in order to gain admission to the written final exam

Course teacher(s)

Course coordinator:

Eero Aleksi Kurkela

Head of Department:

Bjørn Henrik Auestad

Method of work

Lectures and exercises (4 hours/week)

Overlapping courses

Course Reduction (SP)
Numerical Modeling (MAF300_1) 5

Open for

Bachelor level at Faculty og Science and Technology

Master level at Faculty of Science and Technology.

Course assessment

There must be an early dialogue between the course supervisor, the student union representative and the students. The purpose is feedback from the students for changes and adjustments in the course for the current semester.In addition, a digital course evaluation must be carried out at least every three years. Its purpose is to gather the students experiences with the course.

Literature

Search for literature in Leganto