Case Studies in Applied Mathematics

Abstract

This collection of nine case studies in applied mathematics was written primarily for the use of the instructor by a Conference sponsored by the Committee on the Undergraduate Program in Mathematics (CUPM). Each chapter contains exercises of varying degrees of difficulty and several include student projects. The materials were used on a trial basis and the results of these experiences are reported. The first chapter discusses the process of applied mathematics. The case studies are: (1) measuring power in weighted voting systems; (2) a model for municipal street-sweeping operations; (3) a mathematical model of renewable resources; (4) some examples of mathematical models for the dynamics of several-species ecosystems; (5) population mathematics; (6) MacDonald's work on Helminth Infections; (7) modeling linear systems by frequency response methods; (8) network analysis of steam generator flow; and (9) heat transfer in frozen soil. (MP)