Mathematics

Recommended Prerequisites

High school mathematics

Teaching Methods

The theoretical lectures are predominantly expository. In practical classes the students will solve exercises under the guidance of the instructor. In the theoretical classes it will prevail a strong interaction between concepts and their practical application. The transformation of concepts into working tools will be achieved by encouraging personal work. The formal lectures will be complemented by periods of individual attendance.

Learning Outcomes

This curricular unit aims at providing students with essential tools for solving mathematical problems that may arise when studying biological phenomena.

Generic competencies:

- Competence in analyzing and synthesizing;

- Competence in organizing and planning;

- Competence in spoken and written communication;

- Competence in solving problems;

- Competence in critical thinking;

- Competence for communicating with non-specialized crowd;

- Competence in autonomous learning;

- Adaptability to new situations;

- Competence in applying theoretical knowledge in practice

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1. Linear algebra: matrices; sums and products of matrices; systems of  linear equations; determinants; eigenvalues and eigenvectors of a matrix.

2. Derivatives, variation rates and primitives.

3. Differential and modeling equations: equations of separable variables; first order linear equations; frequent equations in biology (logistic equation and Lotka-Volterra prey-predator equations).

4. Integration: definite integrals of continuous functions; calculation of areas; definite integrals of discontinuous integrals;improper integrals.

Head Lecturer(s)

Helena Maria Mamede Albuquerque

Assessment Methods

Continuous evaluation
Test (0-20%) or Midterm exam (0-100%.): 100.0%

Final evaluation
Exam: 100.0%

Bibliography

- Santana  AP, Queiró JF.  Introdução à Álgebra Linear. Gradiva Publicações, 2010.

- Magalhães LT. Álgebra Linear como Introdução a Matemática Aplicada. Texto Editora, 1989.

- Stewart J. Cálculo. Pioneira, 2001.

- Lim JP, Caramelo FJ, Couceiro JM et al. Biomatemática. Imprensada Universidade de Coimbra, 2006