MAT 142 – Fall 2008

College Mathematics
Frets, Flutes and Physics
Mathematical Modeling for Musical Instrument Design

Line Number 86717

Instructor:	Dr. Michael Oehrtman oehrtman@math.asu.edu 480-965-6647	Office Hours:	TTh: 12:00-1:30pm or by appointment (PSA 645)
Class Time:	Tuesday and Thursday, 1:30-2:45pm
Location: Class Website:	PSA 303 http://math.asu.edu/~oehrtman/mat142
Required Text:	Measured Tones, The Interplay of Physics and Music 2^nd edition, by Ian Johnston. Handouts will also be made available on the class website as needed.

Course Description: This class will develop the mathematical concepts and techniques underpinning physical principles covered in the Frets, Flutes and Physics Learning Community. These include:

• Arithmetic
  
• Numerical representations
• Operations
  
• Properties
• Algebra
  
• The concept of variable
• Algebraic manipulations
  
• Functions
• Concept, definition, notation, input-output, composition and inverse
  
• Representations of functions
• Rate of change
  
• Parameters in functions
• Transformations
  
• Basic function types
• Linear
• Quadratic, polynomial and rational
  
• Exponential and logarithmic
  
• Trigonometric
• Techniques
• Mathematical modeling with algebra and functions
  
• Least squares analysis
  
• Fourier analysis
• Anti-aliasing
  
• Other topics as needs arise
  

Special Topics: Occasionally, we will spend time discussing other mathematics topics of interest to the class. These topics are intended for pure enjoyment and will not be covered on homework or exams. If there is anything you are curious about, feel free to email me or chat with me about suggestions. Some examples of these special topics may include

Infinity Calculus Chaos and fractals Bizarre paradoxes Dimensions 4, 5, and beyond...

The shape of the universe Einstein's special relativity Mathematical puzzles Unsolved problems in mathematics What do research mathematicians do?

Homework: Weekly assignments will focus on exercises to develop a deep understanding of the concepts covered and proficiency with the techniques. Write up all work on 8½"×11" paper with an inch margins on all sides free of writing except your name and assignment number. All homework is due at the beginning of class on the day it is due. If you forget to bring your homework, you may submit it up to 24 hours later with a 10% penalty. No homework will be accepted later than this under any circumstances.

Quizzes: We will have regular short quizzes during class. I will drop your lowest two scores to account for any erratic performance or excused absences. Consequently there will be no make-up quizzes under any circumstances.

Exams: Three exams and a comprehensive final will assess conceptual understanding, computational skills and modeling techniques.

Grades will be determined as follows:

400	Homework	A+	970 and above
100	Quizzes	A	930 - 969
300	Exams	A-	900 - 929
200	Final (December 16, 12:10-2:00pm)	B+	870 - 899
		B	830 - 869
1000	Total	B-	800 - 829
		C+	770 - 799
		C	700 - 769
		D	600 - 699
		E	below 600

Academic Dishonesty: In the “Student Academic Integrity Policy” manual, ASU defines “’Plagiarism” [as] using another's words, ideas, materials or work without properly acknowledging and documenting the source. Students are responsible for knowing the rules governing the use of another's work or materials and for acknowledging and documenting the source appropriately.”  You can find this definition at:
http://www.asu.edu/studentaffairs/studentlife/judicial/academic_integrity.htm#definitions
Academic dishonesty, including inappropriate collaboration, will not be tolerated. There are severe sanctions for cheating, plagiarizing and any other form of dishonesty.

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