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MA20202: Modelling the dynamics of life 2

Follow this link for further information on academic years Academic Year: 2015/6
Further information on owning departmentsOwning Department/School: Department of Mathematical Sciences
Further information on credits Credits: 6
Further information on unit levels Level: Intermediate (FHEQ level 5)
Further information on teaching periods Period: Semester 2
Further information on unit assessment Assessment Summary: CW 25%, EX 75%
Further information on unit assessment Assessment Detail:
  • Coursework (CW 25%)
  • Examination (EX 75%)
Further information on supplementary assessment Supplementary Assessment: MA20202 Mandatory Extra Work (where allowed by programme regulations)
Further information on requisites Requisites: Before taking this module you must take MA20201 OR take PH20019
Further information on descriptions Description: Aims:
To develop students' mathematical techniques so that they can model a range of biological systems and interpret the outcomes of the modelling.

Learning Outcomes:
At the end of this unit, students should be able to:
* write down and analyse a range of classical mathematical models used to describe biological processes;
* carry out a range of techniques in matrix algebra and understand its role in analysing biological models;
* work competently with complex numbers;
* make use of a computer package to simulate biological processes.

Skills:
Calculus and matrix algebra (T, A); use of a computer package (T, A); modelling (T, F, A).

Content:
First-order non-linear difference equations: cobweb diagrams, steady states, stability; biological applications, e.g. density-dependent population growth, selection in a bacterial population.
Matrices and determinants: eigenvalues and eigenvectors, complex numbers; Leslie matrices, age-structured populations, host-parasitoid systems.
Second-order linear ordinary differential equations.
Second-order non-linear ordinary differential equations: steady states, Jacobian, phase plane analysis; prey-predator systems, competition systems.
Further information on programme availabilityProgramme availability:

MA20202 is Optional on the following programmes:

Department of Biology & Biochemistry Programmes in Natural Sciences
  • UXXX-AFB01 : BSc(Hons) Natural Sciences (Year 2)
  • UXXX-AAB02 : BSc(Hons) Natural Sciences with Study year abroad (Year 2)
  • UXXX-AKB02 : BSc(Hons) Natural Sciences with Year long work placement (Year 2)
  • UXXX-AFM01 : MSci(Hons) Natural Sciences (Year 2)
  • UXXX-AKM02 : MSci(Hons) Natural Sciences with Professional Placement (Year 2)
  • UXXX-AAM02 : MSci(Hons) Natural Sciences with Study year abroad (Year 2)

Notes:
* This unit catalogue is applicable for the 2015/16 academic year only. Students continuing their studies into 2016/17 and beyond should not assume that this unit will be available in future years in the format displayed here for 2015/16.
* Programmes and units are subject to change at any time, in accordance with normal University procedures.
* Availability of units will be subject to constraints such as staff availability, minimum and maximum group sizes, and timetabling factors as well as a student's ability to meet any pre-requisite rules.