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- 1 First-order differential equations
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First-order differential equations
This unit introduces the topic of differential equations. The subject is developed...
This unit introduces the topic of differential equations. The subject is developed without assuming that you have come across it before, but it is taken for granted that you have a basic grounding in calculus. In particular, you will need to have a good grasp of the basic rules for differentiation and integration.
During this unit you will:
- learn some basic definitions and terminology associated with differential equations and their solutions;
- be able to visualize the direction field associated with a first-order differential equation and be able to use a numerical method of solution known as Euler's method;
- be able to use analytical methods of solution by direct integration; separation of variables; and the integrating factor method.
- Duration: 16 hours
- Published on: Friday 22nd July 2011
- Level: Intermediate
- Posted under: Mathematics Education
Contents
First-order differential equations

This unit introduces the topic of differential equations. The subject is developed without assuming that you have come across it before, but it is taken for granted that you have a basic grounding in calculus. In particular, you will need to have a good grasp of the basic rules for differentiation and integration.
This unit is an adapted extract from the course Mathematical methods and models (MST209) [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)]
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