Advanced Topics in Nonlinear Dynamics (465-0-1)

Instructors

John F Marko
847/467-1276
Pancoe 4109 / Tech F319

Meeting Info

Annenberg Hall G32: Tues, Thurs 9:30AM - 10:50AM

Overview of class

This class will provide an introduction to problems in nonlinear dynamics, focusing on the appearance of power laws and singularities in statistical-mechanical, dynamical, hydrodynamic, and nonequilibrium statistical-mechanical problems. Grading will be based on problem sets based on the course lectures; problems will be a combination of analytical problem solving and MATLAB programming. Students will be expected to do appreciable outside reading including research papers.

Registration Requirements

Graduate students only

This class is for advanced graduate students in Physics, and will draw from topics across the physics curriculum, with prerequisites Phys 411, 412-3, 414-2 and 416.

Learning Objectives

Students will receive an overview and understanding of the behavior of highly nonlinear physical systems, and will learn calculational skills for solving problems in that field.

Teaching Method

Pedagogical classroom lectures, solving advanced problems as homework.

Evaluation Method

Grades will be assigned based on problem set solutions; the lecturer will grade the problem set.

Class Materials (Required)

Lecture notes will be provided. Research papers will be assigned for reading and can be downloaded from the internet. MATLAB is available as a free download for NU students. There will be no required textbook.