Calculus of Variations
A.Y. 2020/2021
Learning objectives
The course aims at providing an introduction to the modern theory of Calculus of Variations, which is a powerful tool to study many problems in mathematics, physics and applied sciences (for instsance: existence of geodesics, surfaces of minimal area, periodic solutions of N-body problems, existence of solutions for nonlinear elliptic PDE).
Expected learning outcomes
Acquisition of the basic notions and techniques in the theory of Calculus of Variations: minimization, deformations, problems of compactness, relations between topology and critical points. Study of the relations between critical point theory and partial differential equations.
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
1.The direct method of the calculus of variations
2. The functional framework for differential equations
3. Minimax-theorems for indefinite functionals
4. Existence of solutions of nonlinear partial differential equations
5. Problems with symmetries and index theories
6. Problems with lack of compactness
7. Applications elliptic equations with nonlinearities with critical growth
2. The functional framework for differential equations
3. Minimax-theorems for indefinite functionals
4. Existence of solutions of nonlinear partial differential equations
5. Problems with symmetries and index theories
6. Problems with lack of compactness
7. Applications elliptic equations with nonlinearities with critical growth
Prerequisites for admission
- Real analysis
- Partial differential equations
Recommended:
- Functional analysis
- Partial differential equations
Recommended:
- Functional analysis
Teaching methods
Lectures in traditional mode, at the blackboard.
Teaching Resources
Ambrosetti, A., Malchiodi, A., Nonlinear Analysis and Semilinear Elliptic Problems, Cambridge University Press, 2007
Struwe, M., Variational Methods, Springer, 2000
Struwe, M., Variational Methods, Springer, 2000
Assessment methods and Criteria
The exam consists of a single oral exam (30 minutes) which serves to verify the theoretical knowledge acquired during the course and the ability to solve exercises similar to the one which were proposed during the course.
MAT/05 - MATHEMATICAL ANALYSIS - University credits: 6
Lessons: 42 hours
Professor:
Ruf Bernhard