Mathematics Seminar - Chris Howland, University of Twente

Title: Linear inhomogeneous differential equations: How to shatter a wine glass with calculus

Abstract:

Linear differential equations describe a wide range of physical systems in both engineering applications and the natural world. In this lecture, we will define what it means for a linear differential equation to be inhomogeneous and how such equations can describe resonance in forced, oscillating systems. We will describe how such problems can be solved using the method of undetermined coefficients, and highlight real-world examples of these systems, from shattering glasses to the world's largest tides.