Course Highlights
This course features assignments and exams.
Course Description
This course introduces fundamental concepts in "continuous'' applied mathematics, with an emphasis on nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs). Topics include linear and nonlinear waves: kinematic waves, method of characteristics, expansion fans, wave breaking, shock dynamics, shock structure; linear and nonlinear diffusion: Green functions, Fourier transform, similarity solutions, boundary layers, Nernst-Planck equations. Applications include traffic flow, gas dynamics, and granular flow.