Linear Systems Project

                           

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Description

This is a group (2 people) assignment. You will investigate an application that can be modeled using systems of differential equations.  For each application the groups should do the following:

  1. Pick an application area of interest to your group from the suggestions below. 
  2. Develop a model that results in a linear system of first order differential equations.
  3. Solve the system, plot solutions in Maple or MATLAB. 
  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 physical model leading to other interesting behavior?
    Add some of these variations of your model and find 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:

The model you pick can be based upon an application described in Chapter 3. Starting points might be suggested by problems 11 (three springs), 12 and 13 (LRC circuits), 14 (tanks), 16 (chemical reactions), or 17 (epidemic 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. Try a parallel combination.

  • 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.

Timetable/Deadlines

  • Feb 10 Let Dr. Herman know who is in the group and what problem you will work on.

  • Feb 17 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 24 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.

  • Mar 2 Final Report: Submit completed final report.

Format

All work should be typed with double-spacing and 12 pt font. 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 and equations. Any references used should be cited as well. These reports will count towards the project component of your grade.

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E-Mail: Dr. Russell Herman Last Updated: February 08, 2012