course-details-portlet

TMA4220

Numerical Solution of Partial Differential Equations Using Element Methods

Choose study year
Credits 7.5
Level Second degree level
Course start Autumn 2025
Duration 1 semester
Language of instruction English
Location Trondheim
Examination arrangement Aggregate score

About

About the course

Course content

The course gives an introduction to finite element methods for the numerical solution of partial differential equations. Topics include: Minimization principle, weak formulation, boundary conditions, quadrature, error analysis, stability, convergence, implementation, direct and iterative solution of the resulting algebraic systems of equations, and applications to the Poisson equation and convection-diffusion equation.

Learning outcome

1) Knowledge: The students have knowledge about the strong and weak formulations of linear partial differential equations. The student know the mathematical foundation for the finite element method.

2) Skills: The students are able to formulate and implement FEM applied to realistic problems, in 1, 2 and 3 dimensions, including time dependent problems. They are also able to evaluate the numerical result. 3. General competence: The students gain experience with written and oral presentation of scientific problems and results.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and exercises. The grade awarded in the course is based on written school exam (75%) and works (projects) (25%).

Students are free to choose Norwegian or English for written assessments.

Further on evaluation

Retake of examination may be given as an oral examination. The retake exam is in August.

In the case that the student receives an F/Fail as a final grade after both ordinary and re-sit exam, then the student must retake the course in its entirety. Submitted work that counts towards the final grade will also have to be retaken. For more information about grading and evaluation, see «Teaching methods and activities».

Course materials

Will be announced at the start of the course.

Credit reductions

Course code Reduction From
SIF5050 7.5 sp
This course has academic overlap with the course in the table above. If you take overlapping courses, you will receive a credit reduction in the course where you have the lowest grade. If the grades are the same, the reduction will be applied to the course completed most recently.

Subject areas

  • Mathematics
  • Technological subjects

Contact information

Course coordinator

Department with academic responsibility

Department of Mathematical Sciences

Examination

Examination

Examination arrangement: Aggregate score
Grade: Letter grades

Ordinary examination - Autumn 2025

School exam
Weighting 75/100 Examination aids Code C Date 2025-11-27 Time 15:00 Duration 4 hours Exam system Inspera Assessment
Place and room for school exam

The specified room can be changed and the final location will be ready no later than 3 days before the exam. You can find your room location on Studentweb.

Sluppenvegen 14
Room SL510
13 candidates
Room SL311 orange sone
10 candidates
Assignment
Weighting 25/100 Exam system Inspera Assessment

Re-sit examination - Summer 2026

School exam
Weighting 75/100 Examination aids Code C Duration 4 hours Exam system Inspera Assessment Place and room Not specified yet.