Math 3 for Nanobiologists

We begin this course with vector calculus; the study of integrals over curves and surfaces in 2 and 3 dimensions. In particular you will learn about the theorems of Green, Gauss, and Stokes.

Next you will study some more advanced concepts of linear algebra. We start with eigenvalues of a matrix, which provides better insight in what happens if you multiply a vector by that matrix. Next we consider the effects of orthogonality ("perpendicularness"), which amongst other things leads to regression (how best to draw a straight line through a set of experimental data). Finally we combine the two in the study of symmetric matrices which allow us to analyze quadratic forms and decompose a matrix in its singular value decompositions.

The course ends with the study of maxima and minima of functions of several variables (which uses the quadratic forms you just learned about), both local and global. In this topic you will also learn the technique of Lagrange multipliers.

The formative assessment consists of automatically grade homework exercises.

The summative assessment consists of: weekly quizzes and a final exam.
These eight quizzes can be taken up to five times in the relevant week, with the best one counting. Only the six best results of these eight count towards the grade taking the arithmetic mean of these six results.

1.a The quizzes open at the end of weeks Q4.1 to Q4.8, and have a deadline in the next week. They can be done at home using an honor code regulation.

1.b The written exam is scheduled for week Q4.10.

2. The resit of the written exam consists of an similar exam.

2.a the resit of the written exam is scheduled for week Q5.3

3. The quiz resit consists of the opportunity to redo the quiz 5 times in the relevant week and that we only count the best 6 results. So there is no separate resit for the quizzes beyond the opportunities given in the quarter itself.

4. The final grade is composed of
Written exam: 75%
Quizzes: 25%
Each must be at least a 5.0 in order to receive a passing overall grade. The partial grades carry over for one year.

5. Registration for exams is done via: Osiris for final exam and resit. You do not need to register for the quizzes.

6. Students needing to turn work in late due to personal circumstances must contact the Academic Counsellor prior to turning it in to make arrangements. Other late work might not be graded.