Nonlinear Dynamics and Chaos - A Toolbox for Complex Systems Research

PHYCS420 UIUC

This course provides a broad introduction to the nonlinear dynamics of physical systems with varying degrees of complexity. We will survey a variety of concepts associated with (but not limited to) bifurcation phenomena, mappings, nonlinear oscillations, chaotic behavior, strange attractors, adaptive systems (adaption to the edge of chaos), control of chaos, entrainment, symbolic sequences, and dissipative systems.

In addition students receive a hands-on introduction in programing HTML, PERL, advanced PERL, Perl examples and JAVA.

There is a homework assignment at most lectures.

The course grade is detetermined from homework (40%), three hour exams (10% each), and a final exam (30%). There is up to 10% extra credit for extra credit homework problems. There is up to 20% extra credit for a semester project. The semester project includes weekly meetings and a term paper. Topics for the semester project are listed here.

Lecture Notes
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