This module covers mathematical methods appropriate to Environmental Science students. Emphasis throughout will be on application of these methods to specific case studies in Environmental Science.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
LO1
Determine derivatives and partial derivatives of functions and use partial derivatives in problem solving.
LO2
Calculate the integral of certain functions and apply the definite integral as it arises in scientific work.
LO3
Apply the techniques of mathematical modelling to issues of air quality, water quality and hazard management.
LO4
Solve differential equations using a variety of methods.
LO5
Apply computer software packages to the solution of problems encountered in coursework.
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named CIT module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
9693
MATH6060
Maths for Physical Sciences
13601
MATH6019
Technological Maths 2 & Maple
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.
No requirements listed
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content
Differential Calculus
Implicit and parametric differentiation. Higher derivatives and their application. Partial Differentiation. Exact differential. Application to error analysis and rates of change.
Integration
Standard Integrals. Integration techniques: substitution, partial fractions, parts. Application to mean value, r.m.s. value, work done by expanding gas, thermodynamic concepts.
Mathematical Modelling
Applications including ground water, surface water and air quality. Darcy's Law. One- and two-dimensional diffusion models. The Gaussian plume model.
Solution of Differential Equations
Formulation and solution of differential equations. First order systems. Second order systems. Solution using Method of Undetermined Coefficients.
Assessment Breakdown
%
Course Work
40.00%
End of Module Formal Examination
60.00%
Course Work
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Short Answer Questions
Calculus based assessment
1,2
15.0
Week 5
Short Answer Questions
In-class assessment based on Mathematical modelling of environmental problems
3,4
15.0
Week 10
Practical/Skills Evaluation
Lab based assessment of material covered in module
5
10.0
Week 12
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Formal Exam
Formal end of semester examination
1,2,3,4
60.0
End-of-Semester
Reassessment Requirement
Repeat examination Reassessment of this module will consist of a repeat examination. It is possible that there will also be a requirement to be reassessed in a coursework element.
The institute reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment
Module Workload
Workload: Full Time
Workload Type
Workload Description
Hours
Frequency
Average Weekly Learner Workload
Lecture
Formal lecture
2.0
Every Week
2.00
Tutorial
Tutorial on lecture material and worksheets
1.0
Every Week
1.00
Lab
Computer software use in the study of applicable problems
1.0
Every Week
1.00
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact)
Online materials via Virtual Learning Environment
3.0
Every Week
3.00
Total Hours
7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload
7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours
4.00
Workload: Part Time
Workload Type
Workload Description
Hours
Frequency
Average Weekly Learner Workload
Lab
Computer software use in the study of applicable problems
1.0
Every Week
1.00
Lecture
Formal lecture
2.0
Every Week
2.00
Tutorial
Tutorial on lecture material and worksheets
1.0
Every Week
1.00
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact)
Online materials via Virtual Learning Environment
3.0
Every Week
3.00
Total Hours
7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload
7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours
4.00
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
Charles R Hadlock 1998, Mathematical Modelling in the Environment, 1 Ed., Mathematical Association of America [ISBN: 0-88385-709-X]
Supplementary Book Resources
James Stewart 2015, Calculus: Early Transcendentals, 8th Ed., Brooks Cole [ISBN: 978-130526726]
Frank R. Spellman and Nancy E. Whiting 2005, Environmental engineer's mathematics handbook, CRC Press Boca Raton, Fla. [ISBN: 1-56670-681-5]
Greg Langkamp and Joseph Hull 2006, Quantitative Reasoning & the Environment, Pearson [ISBN: 978-013148527]
This module does not have any article/paper resources