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The uses of interactive computer graphics for solving differential equations

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Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to investigate the use of interactive computer graphics in a system of programs designed to solve ordinary and partial differential equations.
The first chapter is an overall introduction to the work carried out and is followed by a chapter containing a general survey of interactive computer graphics, including its development, available hardware and software, properties of interactive graphics systems and a selection of the current areas of application.
The third chapter describes the particular hardware and software used with the ICL 4130 at the University of Keele.
The types of ordinary and partial differential equations selected for inclusion in the set of interactive graphics programs are described in Chapter 4, followed by a discussion of the methods of solution chosen for each type of problem. The methods themselves are given in greater detail in the appendix. The chapter ends with a review of the more important ancilliary activities performed within the program. These ares curve fitting, the solution of linear algebraic equations, visual representation of 3-dimensional surfaces and the real time input of algebraic expressions.
In Chapter 5 the design of an interactive graphical system for solving mathematical problems is considered with particular reference to differential equations. The design principles are implemented in the three main programs, described in Chapter 6, for the solution of ordinary and partial differential equations.
In Chapter 7 some of the advantages of interaction and computer graphics when solving differential equations are illustrated by example problems for each of the three programs.
The final chapter contains a discussion of the conclusions and recommendations, based on the experience gained in the use of the programs written, on the uses of interactive computer graphics for solving differential equations.

Publicly Available Date Mar 28, 2024

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