PHY460H1F/1460HF
Nonlinear Physics
Official description
The theory of nonlinear dynamical systems with applications to many areas of physics. Topics include stability, bifurcations, chaos, universality, maps, strange attractors and fractals. Geometric, analytical and computational methods will be developed.
- Prerequisite
- PHY354H1
- Co-requisite
- n.a.
- Exclusion
- n.a.
- Recommended preparation
- n.a.
- Textbook
-
Nonlinear Dynamics and Chaos by Steven H. Strogatz (Perseus Books Group)
- Breadth requirement
- BR=5
- Distribution requirement
- DR=SCI
Additional information
A course on topics in nonlinear physics. Finite dimensional flows, bifurcations, instabilities and relation to phase transitions. Index theory and its use for the classification of topological defects. Chaos, strange attractors, maps and fractals. An introduction to the renormalization group applied to the Feigenbaum sequence and the period-doubling route to turbulence. Examples from nonlinear classical and quantum (few- or many-body) physics, chemistry, biology, and sociology will be given to illustrate the nonlinear phenomena studied. Computer exercises will be used throughout the course.
- course title
- PHY460H1F/1460HF
- session
- fall
- year of study
- 4th year
- time and location
-
24L: LEC0101, LEC2001: WF12, Room: MP134 12T: TUT0101: F2, Room: MP134
- instructor
-