Variational Calculus
Undergraduate
Undergraduate
MATH 3036
Undergraduate
No
106060
4.5
No
The 2025 timetable is
not yet available.
School of Information Technology and Mathematical Sciences
Course Alert: This course is no longer available for enrolment
This course aims to introduce the theory of the calculus of variations, which is motivated by applications to problems in physics and engineering. The theoretical development is quite extensive, covering both scalar and vector functionals of real and vector variables, and the cases of both fixed and free boundaries and free and constrained problems. Many examples illustrating the theoretical concepts are taken from the discipline of mechanics.
The variational integral and functionals of one dependent and one independent variable; fundamental principles of the variational method and the Euler equations; generalisations to two or more dependent and/or independent variables; variation subject to constraints; Lagrange multipliers; boundary conditions: natural boundary conditions and free boundaries; the second variation and the concept of stability (optional); Hamilton’s principle, the equations of classical mechanics and Lagrange’s equations; applications to problems in mechanics appear throughout the course.
G. B. Arfken and H. J. Weber 2007, Mathematical Methods for Physicists, 6th edn, Academic Press
Common to all relevant programs | |
---|---|
Subject Area & Catalogue Number | Course Name |
MATH 2026 | Calculus 3 |
Nil
Component | Duration | ||
---|---|---|---|
INTERNAL, MAWSON LAKES | |||
Lecture | 4 hrs (2x2 hrs) x 13 weeks |
Note: These components may or may not be scheduled in every study period. Please refer to the timetable for further details.
Assignment 1, Assignment 2, Examination
EFTSL*: 0.125
Commonwealth Supported program (Band 1)
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* Equivalent Full Time Study Load. Please note: all EFTSL values are published and calculated at ten decimal places. Values are displayed to three decimal places for ease of interpretation.