Module Details

Module Code: MATH7025
Title: Environmental Mathematics
Long Title: Environmental Mathematics
NFQ Level: Intermediate
Valid From: Semester 1 - 2019/20 ( September 2019 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 4610 - Mathematics
Module Delivered in: 1 programme(s)
Module Description: 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:
# Learning Outcome Description
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.
Dependencies
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 MTU 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
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.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements

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
 
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.
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework40.00%
End of Module Formal Examination60.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Short Answer Questions % of Total Mark 15
Timing Week 5 Learning Outcomes 1,2
Assessment Description
Calculus based assessment
Assessment Type Short Answer Questions % of Total Mark 15
Timing Week 10 Learning Outcomes 3,4
Assessment Description
In-class assessment based on Mathematical modelling of environmental problems
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 10
Timing Week 12 Learning Outcomes 5
Assessment Description
Lab based assessment of material covered in module
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type Formal Exam % of Total Mark 60
Timing End-of-Semester Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Assessment Description
Formal end of semester examination
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 University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Formal lecture Every Week 2.00 2
Tutorial Contact Tutorial on lecture material and worksheets Every Week 1.00 1
Lab Contact Computer software use in the study of applicable problems Every Week 1.00 1
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Online materials via Virtual Learning Environment Every Week 3.00 3
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
Workload: Part Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lab Contact Computer software use in the study of applicable problems Every Week 1.00 1
Lecture Contact Formal lecture Every Week 2.00 2
Tutorial Contact Tutorial on lecture material and worksheets Every Week 1.00 1
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Online materials via Virtual Learning Environment Every Week 3.00 3
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. Mathematical Association of America, [ISBN: 0-88385-709-X].
Supplementary Book Resources
  • James Stewart. (2015), Calculus: Early Transcendentals, 8th. 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
Other Resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_SESST_8 Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Environmental Science and Sustainable Technology 5 Mandatory