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Mathematics 1B unit (KMA154)

Location: Hobart, Launceston, Online

KMA152 & KMA154 are requisite first year units for majors in Mathematics, Physics, and Engineering. They are also prerequisites for many second year units in those areas.

Introduction

This unit is a continuation of KMA152, with emphasis on the application of single-variable calculus and linear algebra to problems in mathematics, the physical and biological sciences, economics, and engineering. Topics include complex numbers, linear equations and matrices, numerical integration and improper integrals, sequences and series, and ordinary differential equations. The main cohort will also explore parametric equations and polar coordinates while a maritime engineering cohort concentrates on statistics.

The units KMA152 and KMA154 provide a substantial foundation and excellent introduction to the rigour required for higher level mathematics-based subjects.

Summary

Unit name Mathematics 1B
Unit code KMA154
Credit points 12.5
College/School Sciences and Engineering
School of Natural Sciences
Discipline Mathematics
Coordinator Doctor Michael Brideson
Available as an elective? Yes
Delivered By University of Tasmania
Level Introductory

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Key Dates

Study Period Start date Census date WW date End date
Semester 2 4/7/2027 26/7/2027 29/8/2027 23/10/2027

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2027 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2027 will be available from the 1st October 2026. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

  • Analyse properties of deterministic and stochastic problems in single variable calculus; linear algebra; complex numbers; and parametric equations or probability and statistics.
  • Solve deterministic and stochastic problems using a variety of techniques from single variable calculus; linear algebra; complex numbers; and parametric equations or probability and statistics.
  • Present mathematical solutions communicating workings, structure, and linked arguments.

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Requisites

Prerequisites

KMA152 OR JEE103

Teaching

Teaching Pattern

4x1-hour workshops and 1-hour tutorial weekly. 

AssessmentMid-Semester Test (10%)|Online Quiz (15%)|Final Exam (35%)|Written Assignments (40%)
TimetableView the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required

Online quizzes are accessible through a Pearson MyLab link in the KMA154 MyLO site. MyLab also provides access to a digital version of the textbooks, which are listed below. This service has been paid for by the Mathematics department. 

  • Thomas’ Calculus, 15th edition in SI Units, Hass et al. (Pearson Education, 2024).

  • Linear Algebra 2nd Edition. Supplement compiled from Linear Algebra With Applications, 8th edition, Leon (Pearson 2010).

Recommended

Any modern textbook on single variable calculus will be useful for the majority of this course. Any modern textbook on (introductory) linear algebra will be useful for the topics based on matrix algebra. 

Some examples are:

  • Advanced Engineering Mathematics, 9th edition, E. Kreyszig (Wiley 2006).
  • Calculus, 7e Metric Version, J. Stewart (Brooks-Cole 2012)
  • Linear Algebra for Calculus, K. Heuvers, et al. (Brooks-Cole 1995)
  • Calculus for Scientists and Engineers, Briggs, Cochran, Gillett. (Pearson 2013).

Kreyszig is an excellent reference book covering many topics that you will meet in other units in Mathematics, Physics, and Engineering.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.