M 161 - Survey of Calculus

4 Credit(s)

Survey of Calculus introduces the basics of both differentiation and integration at a level of depth that is sufficient to allow (primarily) science majors to participate in mathematical modeling experiences that are relevant or transferable to their field of study. Students of M161 will learn to compute exact derivatives of polynomial power, logarithmic, and exponential functions and demonstrate how these results may be used to model rates of change that occur in the natural world. Students will also develop exact techniques for integrating selected functions that fall within these categories. These techniques, which include both direct substitutions and integration by parts, will be used by students in applications that might include hydrostatics, the computation of area, volumes, and masses and the solution of certain scientifically relevant initial value problems. Students of M161 will also have the opportunity to experiment with a computer algebra system (such as Mathematica) for solving applied problems and analyzing mathematical models that require calculus techniques that fall outside the scope of this course. Student mastery of the learning outcomes in this course is typically assessed with exams, quizzes, graded homework, and scientifically relevant projects that illustrate ways in which calculus may be used to understand the natural world through mathematical modeling.

Math.
Prerequisite(s): M 095 grade C-or higher. For students who met this prerequisite more than one year ago, it is recommended (but not required) that they refresh their algebra skills by taking M 121 (College Algebra) before taking M 161.
(fall/spring)