Skip to main content
Unit of study_

MATH5431: Mathematical Models for Natural Phenomena Alt

2020 unit information

"Mathematical modelling applies mathematical frameworks, such as ordinary and partial differential equations, to capture the dynamics of natural phenomena, including fluid dynamics, Newtonian and relativistic mechanics, climate, ecology, and physiology. Modelling often falls into two styles, mechanistic and phenomenological. Mechanistic modelling seeks to understand how large-scale phenomena are driven by simple, local dynamics usually governed by physical or biological laws or properties. On the other hand, phenomenological modelling seeks to capture large-scale trends of a system, such as growth, decay, and oscillations, without necessarily accounting for smaller-scale dynamics. In practice, most models combine elements of both styles. In this unit you will learn about how these mathematical frameworks are constructed and applied for particular types of phenomena which may include mathematical oncology, high Reynolds number fluid flow, stellar atmosphere, terrestrial climates, populations of cells or organisms or other areas of mathematical interest. You will analyse both classical and new models and critique their applicability and use their predictions to explore aspects of the natural world. Inspired by these ideas, you will have the opportunity to create new models in tutorials and assignments and to use them to solve complex mathematical and scientific problems. By doing this unit, you will learn how mathematics is applied in both simple and complicated models and explore the ways that mathematical analysis creates insight into natural phenomena. "

Unit details and rules

Managing faculty or University school:

Science

Study level Postgraduate
Academic unit Mathematics and Statistics Academic Operations
Credit points 6
Prerequisites:
? 
None
Corequisites:
? 
None
Prohibitions:
? 
None
Assumed knowledge:
? 
Familiarity with the modelling and analysis using differential equations (e.g., MATH3063, MATH4063, MATH3078, MATH4078 or MATH4074) and the ability to write code and numerical schemes to solve standard applied mathematical problems (e.g., MATH4076 or MATH3076 or MATH4411 or equivalent). Please consult with the coordinator for further information.

The learning outcomes for this unit will be available two weeks before the first day of teaching.

Unit availability

This section lists the session, attendance modes and locations the unit is available in. There is a unit outline for each of the unit availabilities, which gives you information about the unit including assessment details and a schedule of weekly activities.

The outline is published 2 weeks before the first day of teaching. You can look at previous outlines for a guide to the details of a unit.

There are no availabilities for this year.
Session MoA ?  Location Outline ? 
Semester 2 2020
Normal day Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney
Outline unavailable

Find your current year census dates

Modes of attendance (MoA)

This refers to the Mode of attendance (MoA) for the unit as it appears when you’re selecting your units in Sydney Student. Find more information about modes of attendance on our website.