In this course you will be introduced to some of the standard mathematical topics that are useful in physics. The typical topics covered in a course on mathematical physics are vector analysis, vector spaces, linear algebra, complex variables, power series, ordinary and partial differential equations, Fourier series, Laplace and Fourier transforms, Sturm-Liouville theory, special functions and possibly other more advanced topics.

We will also cover these topics, but will do so in the guise of exploring specific physical problems. This course will have a theme: Oscillations. Many of the topics in mathematical physics stem from studying simple harmonic motion and the wave equation. As we progress through the course, we will see these connections. The text is a set of notes tying together physics problems and the mathematics used in solving them.

The general learning goals of this course are for you to

Projects:  Some of the interesting problems in physics require a little more work than a typical homework problem as they are either computationally tedious or next to impossible. Some problems cannot be solved analytically and are more readily solved using computers. Therefore, to give you a change to do something a bit more challenging and possibly open up ideas for future research projects, you will be assigned at least one major project. This will count 10% of your grade.

Exams and Grades: Exams and Grades: There will be a three exams and a final for this course. The exams will cover the basic material up to the date of the exam. The tentative dates for the exams are below.

Your final grade will be based on the following:

More information will be posted on the web related to the topics we are studying. Links can be found with summaries to the material, study suggestions, homework assignments, etc. These will be accessible through the instructor's homepage at