Math 2720                        Vector Calculus                      Spring 2008


Instructor: Professor Jim Zhu
Office: 5533 EV, Tel: 387-4537, e-mail: zhu@wmich.edu
Web: http://homepages.wmich.edu/~zhu
Office Hours: M.T.W.R. 2:20-2:50P.M. and M. W. 6:15--7:00 P.M
Class Hours: M.T. W. R. 1:30-2:20 P.M. in Parkview D0201
Text: Vector Calculus, 2nd edition by T. H. Barr


Course Description:

In Math 2720 we learn how to develop the principles and methods in calculus into the vector spaces. This will enable us to deal with multivariable and vector valued functions. Contents include vectors and their operations, vector valued functions, partial derivatives, total derivatives, line integrations, double integrations, surface integrations, triple integrations, Green's theorem and their applications. These roughly corresponds to Chapters 1-4 and part of Chapter 5 and 6 of the text. Students are responsible for all material in the text and all material presented in class. This includes any material not in the text and all material in the text that was not presented in class.

Prerequisites:

A passing grade (C or better) in Math 1230 or Math 1710.

Objectives:

1. Understanding how vectors and their operations related to real world models, in particular, to goemetrical and physical models.
2. Mastering vector operations.
3. Understanding the concepts of limites and derivatives of vector valued functions, interpreting it geometrically, physically and using it in optimization and linear approximation.
4. Understanding the concepts of partial and total derivatives and relating them to applications in physics and geometry.
5. Understanding double and triple integration and their relationship with partial and total differentiation and applying them.
6. Strenthening the proper use of mathematical notation.
7. Developing sufficient computational skills in vectors and their differential and integral operations for subsequent calculus courses and for applications in other areas.
8. Strenthening abilities to tackle multi-step problems and to explain the process.
9. Strenthening the ability of using modern computer algebra systems (Maple) in assisting the analysis of problems in calculus and the visualization of their solutions.
10. Strenthening skills in mathematical reasoning.
11. Developing a broad perspective of how various topics in calculus fit together.

Academic Integrity: Students are responsible for making themselve aware of and understanding the policies and procedures in the Undergraduate (pp. 274-276) [Graduate (pp.25-27)] Catalog that pertain to Academic Honesty. These policies include cheating, fabrication, falsification and forgery, multiple submission, plagiarism, complicity and computer misuse. If there is reason to believe you have been involved in academic dishonesty, you will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct. You will be given the opportunity to review the charge(s). If you believe you are not responsible, you will have the opportunity for a hearing. You should consult with me if you are uncertain about an issue of academic honesty prior to the submission of an assignment or test.

Calculator and Maple:

A graphing calculator is required for this class. A TI-89 or TI-92 PLUS is recommended. We will use many of the extra capabilities of these calculators. You can find help and examples prepared by Professor Pence here.We will also use the software package Maple. Some maple worksheets can be found here.

Homework:

A list of problems to work can be find here. Although none of the homework will be collected, you are responsible for all of the problems. If you have any questions about problems, please ask them in class or in office hours.

Quizzes:

A total of 5 quizzes will be given. No make up quiz will be given. However, I will drop your worst quiz.

Final:

The final exam will be April 23, Wednesday from 12:30--2:30pm.

Grading:

The final is 28% and the quizzes count for 72%. This gives a total of 100%.
Grading scale is approximately as follows:
                                    A (85-100%) BA(78-84.99%) B (71-77.99%) CB(63-70.99%)
                                    C(56-62.99%) DC(50-55.99%) D(43-49.99%) E(0-42.99%)