ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS 214

Differential Equations and Linear Algebra

The first part of the module is on ordinary differential equations and the theory of initial value
problems. Several techniques for solving first order differential equations are introduced. This
is followed by the solution of higher order linear differential equations, including methods of
undetermined coefficients and variation of parameters. In conclusion of this part of the
module the Laplace transform is introduced and some applications are discussed. The second
part of the module follows on the matrix algebra which was studied in the first year course,
and covers linear independence, eigenvalues and eigenvectors of matrices, orthogonal
matrices and diagonalization. Some applications of diagonalization are also discussed.
Module Information
38571 214 (15) Engineering Mathematics 214
Second year, first semester of the Programs in Civil, Electrical, Industrial, Process and
Mechanical Engineering.
Four lectures and one tutorial of 2 hours per week.
Prerequisite pass modules (FM/PP50): Engineering Mathematics 115 or Engineering
Mathematics 145; Prerequisite module (FM/PP40): Engineering Mathematics 145.
Language specification : A & E
Lecturers:
Prof A Fransman (Afrikaans) Groups 1 & 2. Office 3006, Mathematical Sciences and
Industrial Psychology building (e-mail: af@sun.ac.za)
Dr A Keet (English) Groups 3 & 4. Office 1010A, Mathematical Sciences and
Industrial Psychology building (e-mail: keetap@sun.ac.za)
Learning Material
Prescribed textbook: DG Zill & WS Wright: Advanced Engineering Mathematics (5th
Edition), Jones and Bartlett Publishers, 2014.
Module Content
Differential equations: Selected material form Chapters 2 and 3 (2.4; 2.5; 3.1-3.6).
Laplace Transforms: Selected material from Chapter 4 (4.1; 4.2).
Linear Algebra: Vector spaces (Chapter 7.6).
Eigenvalues and diagonalisation: Selected material from Chapter 8 (8.8; 8.10; 8.12).
Learning Opportunities
The course material is dealt with in detail during the lectures. Tutorials provide the
opportunity to work on problems and discuss coursework under supervision of the
lecturer.
Assessment
This module uses the Flexible Assessment method, as applied in the Engineering
Faculty. For details, please refer to the Facultys Assessment Rules, which is
available on Sunlearn.
The pass requirement for this module is a final mark FM 50%.
A semester mark (SM) is required by writing tutorial tests during weekly tutorials.
There are three formal scheduled assessment opportunities: A1 (mid-semester test),
A2 (first examination), and A3 (second examination).
The following weighting factors are used to determine the FM: WSM=0.1; WA1=0.4;
WA2=0.5

The date and time of the semester test are determined by the Engineering Faculty
(www.eng.sun.ac.za) and those of A2 and A3 are published on the Universitys
website. For any further information on examinations and promotion, see the
University Calendar, Parts 1 and 11.

General Information
Please note the following regarding the tutorials: (a) Attendance of all tutorials is
compulsory. (b) No other appointments (academic or otherwise) may be observed
during tutorial periods.
The solutions of tutorial problems and tutorial tests will be made available on web
studies.
Study Hints
It is important that you understand the basic concepts very well, so that you are able to
apply the theory.
To determine whether you have mastered the course material, you must work a variety
of problems from the Exercises in the textbook.
You are welcome to consult your lecturer if there is anything which you do not
understand, or if you get stuck with a problem. The lecturer will be available right
after each lecture, as well as in his/her office (preferably by appointment).
Revise each section completely as soon as it has been discussed in class. It is very
important that you do not fall behind, since it is very difficult to catch up.
Rationale
The module is presented as part of all Programs in Engineering and offers basic training in
Mathematics which is necesary for the successful completion of other modules within these
Programs. The module supports the Program outcome that graduates should be able to use
their knowledge of mathematics to solve engineering problems.
Learning Outcomes
After completing this course, students should be able to:
Solve first-order differential equations of several types; know the criteria for existence
and uniqueness of a first-order differential equation.
Solve higher order linear differential equations, both homogeneous and nonhomogeneous types. Know the criteria for the existence and uniqueness of higher
order linear differential equations.
Solve initial value problems using Laplace transforms.
Understand the concept of linear independence and its application in the solution of
systems of linear equations.
Calculate eigenvalues and eigenvectors of matrices; know the basic facts of
diagonalization of matrices, and be able to apply these.