Partial Differential Equations

Credits 8 credit points
Instructors Vorst, R.C.A.M. van der (Vrije Universiteit)
E-mail RCAM.van.der.Vorst@few.vu.nl
Description The first PDEs encountered in this course are - linear - first order equations. We discuss a classification of linear
PDEs of any order - mainly constant coefficients. We start with an introduction to PDEs via Fourier series methods.
These methods are motivated via the classical examples of hyperbolic (wave), parabolic (diffusion) and elliptic (Laplace) equations. A brief introduction to Sobolev spaces and Hilbert space methods accumulates in the proof of the existence of weak solutions of linear elliptic equations by the Lax-Milgram Lemma, as well as some basic regularity theory. Furthermore, eigenvalue problems and expansions of eigenfunctions are studied through these methods.
Examination Based on take home exercise series.
Literature L.C. Evans: Partial differential equations, GSM 19, American mathematical society
Prerequisites A basic knowledge real and complex analysis and/or calculus. A background in ordinary differential equations and/or dynamical systems.
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