MTH 210: Vector Analysis

Vector analysis is the mathematical backbone of classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and fluid dynamics. This learning track delivers the complete NUC CCMAS MTH 210 curriculum, rigorously progressing from fundamental vector algebra to the advanced differential and integral calculus of scalar and vector fields used in complex engineering and scientific modelling. This programme is targeted at undergraduates in engineering, physics, mathematics, and computer science. It provides the essential mathematical toolkit for students entering disciplines that rely on applied mathematics and spatial analysis, and serves as a rigorous refresher for professionals needing to solidify their command of vector principles. You will master the full spectrum of vector operations including dot, cross, and triple products, and apply them to solve geometric problems and vector equations. You will acquire the skills to analyze the differential geometry of curves using the Frenet-Serret framework and apply the powerful gradient, divergence, curl, and Laplacian operators in various coordinate systems. Completion establishes the critical mathematical foundation demanded for advanced studies in continuum mechanics, electrodynamics, and theoretical physics.

Enrolment valid for 12 months

Learning Track Courses

Vector Algebra and Geometry - Vectors (Undergraduate Foundation)
Vector Algebra and Geometry - Vectors (Undergraduate Foundation)
Vectors are the primary tool for describing quantities with both magnitude and direction. This course provides a complete foundation in their algebraic and geometric properties. We move systematically from the basic definition and classification of vectors to the core operations of vector algebra: addition and scalar multiplication. The curriculum then progresses to essential geometric applications, including position vectors, Cartesian components, direction cosines, the division of lines, vector projections, and centroids. A command of vector algebra is not optional; it is essential for any technical or scientific discipline. This knowledge is the bedrock of classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and fluid dynamics. Engineers use these principles to analyse forces, computer scientists use them to build 3D graphics engines, and data scientists apply them in advanced linear algebra. This course provides the indispensable mathematical toolkit required for these fields. Upon completion, you will be able to perform all fundamental vector operations with precision. You will resolve vectors into Cartesian components and use direction cosines. You will solve geometric problems involving position vectors, the internal and external division of lines, and collinearity. Furthermore, you will master the calculation of vector projections and the determination of centroids in geometric systems. This course is designed for first-year undergraduate students in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, and Computer Science. It serves as a critical foundation for anyone beginning studies that rely on applied mathematics. It is also a rigorous and efficient refresher for professionals or advanced students who need to solidify their understanding of foundational vector principles before tackling more complex material.

Vectors are the primary tool for describing quantities with both magnitude and direction. This course provides a complete foundation in their algebraic and geometric properties. We move systematically from the basic definition and classification of vectors to the core operations of vector algebra: addition and scalar multiplication. The curriculum then progresses to essential geometric applications, including position vectors, Cartesian components, direction cosines, the division of lines, vector projections, and centroids. A command of vector algebra is not optional; it is essential for any technical or scientific discipline. This knowledge is the bedrock of classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and fluid dynamics. Engineers use these principles to analyse forces, computer scientists use them to build 3D graphics engines, and data scientists apply them in advanced linear algebra. This course provides the indispensable mathematical toolkit required for these fields. Upon completion, you will be able to perform all fundamental vector operations with precision. You will resolve vectors into Cartesian components and use direction cosines. You will solve geometric problems involving position vectors, the internal and external division of lines, and collinearity. Furthermore, you will master the calculation of vector projections and the determination of centroids in geometric systems. This course is designed for first-year undergraduate students in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, and Computer Science. It serves as a critical foundation for anyone beginning studies that rely on applied mathematics. It is also a rigorous and efficient refresher for professionals or advanced students who need to solidify their understanding of foundational vector principles before tackling more complex material.

Scalar, Vector and Triple Products of Vectors (Undergraduate Foundation)
Scalar, Vector and Triple Products of Vectors (Undergraduate Foundation)
This course moves beyond basic vector algebra to cover the three critical methods of vector multiplication and their geometric applications. We systematically analyse the scalar (dot) product and vector (cross) product, followed by both scalar and vector triple products. The curriculum concludes by consolidating these skills to solve abstract vector equations and formulate the vector equations of straight lines in three dimensions. These operations are not abstract; they are the language of physical science and engineering. The scalar product is the standard tool for calculating work done by a force and projecting vectors. The vector product is indispensable for defining torque, angular momentum, and magnetic forces. Mastery of these products allows for precise analysis of forces, rotations, and spatial relationships in real-world systems. Upon completion, you will calculate scalar, vector, and triple products for any given vectors. You will apply these products to solve geometric problems, including testing for perpendicularity and parallelism and finding the area of a parallelogram. Critically, you will master the techniques required to solve complex vector equations and derive the vector equation of a line using various input conditions. This course is designed for first-year undergraduate students in Engineering, Physics, and Applied Mathematics. It requires prior knowledge of basic vector addition and scalar multiplication. This programme provides the necessary rigorous foundation in vector products, making it a critical prerequisite for subsequent study in classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and linear algebra.

This course moves beyond basic vector algebra to cover the three critical methods of vector multiplication and their geometric applications. We systematically analyse the scalar (dot) product and vector (cross) product, followed by both scalar and vector triple products. The curriculum concludes by consolidating these skills to solve abstract vector equations and formulate the vector equations of straight lines in three dimensions. These operations are not abstract; they are the language of physical science and engineering. The scalar product is the standard tool for calculating work done by a force and projecting vectors. The vector product is indispensable for defining torque, angular momentum, and magnetic forces. Mastery of these products allows for precise analysis of forces, rotations, and spatial relationships in real-world systems. Upon completion, you will calculate scalar, vector, and triple products for any given vectors. You will apply these products to solve geometric problems, including testing for perpendicularity and parallelism and finding the area of a parallelogram. Critically, you will master the techniques required to solve complex vector equations and derive the vector equation of a line using various input conditions. This course is designed for first-year undergraduate students in Engineering, Physics, and Applied Mathematics. It requires prior knowledge of basic vector addition and scalar multiplication. This programme provides the necessary rigorous foundation in vector products, making it a critical prerequisite for subsequent study in classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and linear algebra.

Introduction to Differential Geometry - Vectors (Undergraduate Foundation)
Introduction to Differential Geometry - Vectors (Undergraduate Foundation)
This course provides a rigorous introduction to the differential geometry of curves in three-dimensional space. Using the tools of vector calculus, you will learn to analyze the intrinsic properties of a curve at any point. We will explore key concepts such as arc length, curvature, and torsion, and define the moving T-N-B frame (tangent, normal, and binormal vectors) using the celebrated Frenet-Serret formulas. How can we mathematically describe the precise twisting and turning of a curve in space? Differential geometry provides the elegant and powerful answer. This field is not just abstract; its principles are fundamental to understanding the shape of DNA, designing paths for robotics, and creating realistic motion in computer graphics. This course reveals the beautiful mathematics behind the shapes that define our world. This programme is designed for students who have completed our introductory course on vector calculus and wish to explore a beautiful application of its principles. It is ideal for students of mathematics, physics, and computer science with an interest in geometry and abstract structures. This course will sharpen your analytical skills and provide a solid foundation for more advanced studies in geometry and topology.

This course provides a rigorous introduction to the differential geometry of curves in three-dimensional space. Using the tools of vector calculus, you will learn to analyze the intrinsic properties of a curve at any point. We will explore key concepts such as arc length, curvature, and torsion, and define the moving T-N-B frame (tangent, normal, and binormal vectors) using the celebrated Frenet-Serret formulas. How can we mathematically describe the precise twisting and turning of a curve in space? Differential geometry provides the elegant and powerful answer. This field is not just abstract; its principles are fundamental to understanding the shape of DNA, designing paths for robotics, and creating realistic motion in computer graphics. This course reveals the beautiful mathematics behind the shapes that define our world. This programme is designed for students who have completed our introductory course on vector calculus and wish to explore a beautiful application of its principles. It is ideal for students of mathematics, physics, and computer science with an interest in geometry and abstract structures. This course will sharpen your analytical skills and provide a solid foundation for more advanced studies in geometry and topology.

Calculus of Scalar and Vector Fields (Undergraduate Advanced)
Calculus of Scalar and Vector Fields (Undergraduate Advanced)
Do you want to learn how to manipulate and analyze scalar and vector fields using advanced calculus techniques? Do you want to understand the concepts and methods of scalar and vector products, gradient, divergence, curl, and Laplacian operators? Do you want to apply the principles of vector analysis to solve problems in physics, engineering, and other disciplines? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this course is for you! In this course, you will learn the fundamentals of calculus of scalar and vector fields, which is the branch of mathematics that deals with functions and operators that map points in space to scalars or vectors. You will learn how to use different notations and conventions to express scalar and vector fields, such as Einstein's summation, Kronecker delta, and Levi-Civita symbols. You will learn how to perform scalar and vector products of vectors, which are useful for measuring angles, areas, and volumes. You will learn how to compute and interpret the gradient of a scalar field, which measures the rate and direction of change of a scalar function. You will learn how to compute and interpret the divergence and curl of a vector field, which measure the sources and vortices of a vector field. You will also learn how to use the Laplacian operator, which combines the divergence and the gradient, and is useful for studying heat conduction, electrostatics, and fluid dynamics. This course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to solve various problems involving scalar and vector fields. You will be able to apply the concepts and methods of calculus of scalar and vector fields to fields such as physics, engineering, chemistry, biology, and more. You will also be able to appreciate the power of vector analysis theorems, such as Gauss', Green's, and Stokes' theorems, which relate the integrals of scalar and vector fields over different domains. By the end of this course, you will be able to: - Define and explain the meaning of scalars, vectors, and tensors - Identify and use different notations and conventions for scalar and vector fields - Perform scalar and vector products of vectors and calculate angles, areas, and volumes - Compute and interpret the gradient of a scalar field and its properties - Compute and interpret the divergence and curl of a vector field and their properties - Compute and interpret the Laplacian of a scalar or a vector field and its applications - Use different coordinate systems and bases to express scalar and vector fields and operators - Compute and interpret the gradient, divergence, curl, and Laplacian in orthogonal curvilinear coordinates - Recognize and use some special curvilinear coordinates, such as cylindrical and spherical coordinates - Apply the vector analysis theorems, such as Gauss', Green's, and Stokes' theorems, to relate the integrals of scalar and vector fields over different domains Created for students, engineers, scientists, and anyone passionate about learning the calculus of scalar and vector fields, this course assumes a basic background in calculus, linear algebra, and vector algebra. With engaging video lessons, interactive quizzes, practice problems, and supportive peer interactions, you'll embark on a journey of discovery and mastery like never before. Seize the opportunity to advance your mathematical skills and unlock new problem-solving possibilities with an enrolment right away!

Do you want to learn how to manipulate and analyze scalar and vector fields using advanced calculus techniques? Do you want to understand the concepts and methods of scalar and vector products, gradient, divergence, curl, and Laplacian operators? Do you want to apply the principles of vector analysis to solve problems in physics, engineering, and other disciplines? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this course is for you! In this course, you will learn the fundamentals of calculus of scalar and vector fields, which is the branch of mathematics that deals with functions and operators that map points in space to scalars or vectors. You will learn how to use different notations and conventions to express scalar and vector fields, such as Einstein's summation, Kronecker delta, and Levi-Civita symbols. You will learn how to perform scalar and vector products of vectors, which are useful for measuring angles, areas, and volumes. You will learn how to compute and interpret the gradient of a scalar field, which measures the rate and direction of change of a scalar function. You will learn how to compute and interpret the divergence and curl of a vector field, which measure the sources and vortices of a vector field. You will also learn how to use the Laplacian operator, which combines the divergence and the gradient, and is useful for studying heat conduction, electrostatics, and fluid dynamics. This course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to solve various problems involving scalar and vector fields. You will be able to apply the concepts and methods of calculus of scalar and vector fields to fields such as physics, engineering, chemistry, biology, and more. You will also be able to appreciate the power of vector analysis theorems, such as Gauss', Green's, and Stokes' theorems, which relate the integrals of scalar and vector fields over different domains. By the end of this course, you will be able to: - Define and explain the meaning of scalars, vectors, and tensors - Identify and use different notations and conventions for scalar and vector fields - Perform scalar and vector products of vectors and calculate angles, areas, and volumes - Compute and interpret the gradient of a scalar field and its properties - Compute and interpret the divergence and curl of a vector field and their properties - Compute and interpret the Laplacian of a scalar or a vector field and its applications - Use different coordinate systems and bases to express scalar and vector fields and operators - Compute and interpret the gradient, divergence, curl, and Laplacian in orthogonal curvilinear coordinates - Recognize and use some special curvilinear coordinates, such as cylindrical and spherical coordinates - Apply the vector analysis theorems, such as Gauss', Green's, and Stokes' theorems, to relate the integrals of scalar and vector fields over different domains Created for students, engineers, scientists, and anyone passionate about learning the calculus of scalar and vector fields, this course assumes a basic background in calculus, linear algebra, and vector algebra. With engaging video lessons, interactive quizzes, practice problems, and supportive peer interactions, you'll embark on a journey of discovery and mastery like never before. Seize the opportunity to advance your mathematical skills and unlock new problem-solving possibilities with an enrolment right away!