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Reading Eighteenth Century Mathematical Theory of Waves
Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:30:55
Abstract
The heart of this course will be a close reading of eighteenth century texts concerning the mathematical description of the wave motion of a vibrating string. We will look closely at texts by Bernoulli, D'Alembert and Euler and observe how visions of the world are intertwined with the development of the mathematical methods.
Objective
Our objectives will be : 1. to understand the eighteenth century mathematical theory of waves, its physical implications, and mathematical apparatus 2. to get a clear vision of its place in the development of modern scientific practice 3. to learn how to read historical texts carefully 4. to introduce students to the subtle philosophical questions involved in this scientific practice.
Content
After Newton's success in describing physical phenomena in detail by using mathematical methods, the path was opened for new areas of research. In order to understand nature and to describe it precisely and fully, new mathematical questions were asked, and new methods developed. Bernoulli, D'Alembert and Euler tried to give a mathematical account for the movements and shape of a vibrating string. It is especially interesting to see how they managed to bring out models and at the same time elaborate the foundations for understanding and solving partial differential equations. The problems raised in conceiving and describing the movements of the string by mathematical analysis appear in a clearer light, since the different authors' disputes forced them to explain themselves in detail regarding the relevance and generality of their solutions. The basic texts will be translated into English. Supplementary readings on different issues related to the topic will be provided during the semester.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DS , DR , MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 50
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Reading Eighteenth Century Mathematical Theory of Waves |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Wissenschaft im Kontext (Science in Perspective) (In Kursen aus dem Programm “Wissenschaft im Kontext” lernen Studierende, die MINT Fächer der ETH aus der Perspektive der Geistes-, Sozial- und Staatswissenschaften zu reflektieren. Nur die in diesem Abschnitt aufgelisteten Fächer können als "Wissenschaft im Kontext" angerechnet werden.)
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Typ A: Förderung allgemeiner Reflexionskompetenz (WiK-Kurse werden für Bachelorstudierende nach dem ersten Studienjahr sowie für alle Masterstudierende und Doktorierende empfohlen. Alle WiK-Kurse sind in Typ A gelistet. Bei den unter Typ B aufgeführten Kursen handelt es sich lediglich um Belegungsempfehlungen für bestimmte Departemente.)
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Doktorat Geistes-, Sozial- und Staatswissenschaften (Mehr Informationen unter: )