Module GEOL1081: Further Mathematics for Geoscientists

Department: Earth Sciences

GEOL1081: Further Mathematics for Geoscientists

Prerequisites

• Mathematics A level at grade B or above, or a comparable qualification in Mathematics.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• NOT available to students who are taking any Level 1 module in Mathematics.

Aims

• To ensure that Level 1 students on degree programmes in Earth Sciences, and especially Geophysics, have an adequate background in mathematics and can apply their mathematical knowledge to the solution of problems in geosciences.

Content

• Differential and integral calculus;
• Linear differential equations of first and second order;
• Elementary partial differential equations;
• Vector products;
• Line, surface and volume integrals;
• Spherical polar coordinates;
• Taylor’s series and Maclaurin’s series;
• Fourier series;
• Matrices.

Learning Outcomes

• Students should acquire ability in the basic mathematical techniques required for to tackle applications of mathematics taught on degree programmes in Earth Sciences at Levels 2 and 3.

• These applications involve differention and integration, solution of differential equations, manipulation of vectors, transformation between Cartesian and spherical polar coordinates, solution of simultaneous equations, and spectral analysis.

• Solve numerical problems using computer or non-computer techniques.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• The module is delivered through a mix of lectures and tutorials. Weekly problems are set for the students to hand in for formative assessment, and the tutorials are allocated to dealing with students’ difficulties in tackling the problems. Summative assessment comprises class tests (40% of module mark) and a 2-hour written examination (60% of module mark).

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Weekly problems.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University