Most physicists first encounter asymptotic analysis in the form of Stirling's formula, and usually in circumstances (a statistical mechanics course) that leave little time for the explication of the methodology used in deriving the formula. How is it different from a Taylor series? And where did that pi come from? Learning the answers to these questions should be part of the basic training of any condensed matter theorist. This module is designed to address this need.
Asymptotic analysis has applications even in everyday experience. A spectacular example is the rainbow. In preparation for an analysis of the rainbow, we recommend you take this quiz.
Supernumerary rainbow arcs (Airy functions in the sky)
First homework assignment, due Friday, April 14, and solution.
Second homework assignment, due Wednesday, April 19, and solution.
Third homework assignment, due Friday, April 21, and solution.
Fourth homework assignment, due Wednesday, April 26, and solution.
Fifth homework assignment, due Wednesday, May 3, and solution.
Sixth homework assignment, due Monday, May 8, and solution.