Course Description
Role of theory construction and model building in development of experimental science. Historical development of mathematical theories and models for growth of one-species populations (logistic and off-shoots), including considerations of age distributions (matrix models, Leslie and Lopez; continuous theory, renewal equation). Some of the more elementary theories on the growth of organisms (von Bertalanffy and others; allometric theories; cultures grown in a chemostat). Mathematical theories oftwo and more species systems (predator-prey, competition, symbosis; leading up to present-day research) and discussion of some similar models for chemical kinetics. Much emphasis on scrutiny of biological concepts as well as of mathematical structureof models in order to uncover both weak and strong points of models discussed. Mathematical treatment of differential equations in models stressing qualitative and graphical aspects, as well as certain aspects of discretization. Difference equation models.
Fall 2024
Instructors
Meeting Patterns
Classes Start:
August 19, 2024
Classes End:
December 3, 2024
Location:
01220 SAS Hall
Class Days:
M W
Class Start Time:
3:00pm
Class End Time:
4:15pm
Class Type:
Lecture
Credits:
3.00
Restrictions:
Prerequisite: Advanced calculus, reasonable background in biology
