# Mathematical Techniques 3

### Mathematical Techniques 3 (MT3 | SPA5218)

Please consult QMPlus for the authoritative information on this module.

Year: 2 | Semester: A | Level: 5 | Credits: 15

Lectures: 33 | Lec: 310 512 513 Ex: 411 412 414 415 (notation)
Exam: 2.5 hour written paper (90%), coursework (10%)
Ancillary teaching: 11 Exercise classes

Course organiser: Dr Alston Misquitta | Course deputy: Dr Sanjaye Ramgoolam

Synopsis:
This course explains the use of Mathematics as a tool for formulating and solving problems in Physics. Extensive practice with mathematical calculations develops confidence in handling theoretical concepts of Physics.
Aims:
The course is intended to show how the mathematical concepts introduced in MT2 are extended and used in the context of real physical problems. It is intended to equip the second-year students with a solid grounding in mathematical solution of physics problems and prepares them for advanced theoretical concepts of subsequent Physics courses
Outcomes:
On completing this course students should be able to: Use Index notation as a powerful tool for manipulating matrices and vectors. Appreciate the concept of a vector space, basis vectors and linear independence, with examples using coordinate vectors and functions. Manipulate matrix and differential operators; Solve a variety of 1st and 2nd order differential equations both ordinary and partial for physical problems Use various methods, including separation of variables and Green function techniques. Understand the basics of variational calculus Understand contour integration, the residue theorem, special functions and some physical applications.

Recommended books:

Mathematical Methods for Physicists
G.B.Arfken and H.K. Webber
ISBN-13: 978-0-12-059876-2
ISBN-10: 0-12-059876-0

Mathematical Methods for Physics and Engineering
K.F.Riley, M.P.Hobson, and S.J.Bence
ISBN-10 0-521-67971-0
ISBN-13 978-0-521-67971-8



## Juno Champion

The school holds Juno Champion status, the highest award of this IoP scheme to recognise and reward departments that can demonstrate they have taken action to address the under-representation of women in university physics and to encourage better practice for both women and men.