Linear Systems Project

                           

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Description

This is a group (2 people) assignment. You will investigate the applications below. For each application the groups should do the following:

  1. Pick an application area of interest to your group.  No two groups can work on the same models. Get approval for your project from Dr. Herman.
  2. Develop a model that results in a linear system of equations.
  3. Study the system using the techniques from the class including matrix methods, qualitative analysis and phase portraits.
  4. Discuss the various behaviors encountered in terms of the parameters of your systems. If there are no parameters, then introduce some.
  5. How can one generalize/vary the model leading to other interesting behavior? Provide some of these variations of your model with some solutions.
  6. All reports should include figures, solution plots, and other results from computer computations.
  7. Write up a report according to the guidelines.

Possible Application Fields/Models:

  • Spring-Mass Systems: Two masses with two springs.

  • Electric Networks: Combinations of resistors, inductor and capacitors. Do not do the standard series RLC circuit.

  • Two Compartment Models: Two tank model, drugs in two compartments (membranes)

  • Predator-Prey Models: Models of competing species number two to three species.

  • Love Affairs: Investigate the typical Romeo and Juliet problem.

  • Chemical Kinetics: There are many models of chemical reactions leading to systems of equations. Study some leading to linear systems.

  • Other Applications: There are plenty of other applications in physics, biology, etc. which might be of interest to your group.

All work should be typed with double-spacing and 12 pt font. [You may also use the LaTeX article style with 12 pt format.] You will be expected to use correct English grammar and punctuation. You will be graded on the evidence of work, mathematical detail and understanding, proper exposition and neatness. Your work should also be supported with properly labeled and embedded plots. Any references used should be cited as well. These reports will count towards the project component of your grade.

Timetable/Deadlines

  • Feb 9 Let Dr. Herman know who is in the group and what problem you will work on.

  • Feb 11 Progress Report 1: Submit a synopsis of your problem. Include title, the linear system and its modeling, and possible directions you plan to go with the research.

  • Feb 18 Progress Report 1: Submit a detailed progress report indicating how far you have gone towards the goals provided in the last report showing considerable progress. It is best to aim fo a draft of the final project report.

  • Feb 25 Final Report: Submit completed final report.

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E-Mail: Dr. Russell Herman Last Updated: February 07, 2011