Where should I start with advanced mathematics during my holiday break?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a 15-year-old student seeking advanced mathematics assignments during a three-month holiday. The student has a foundational understanding of trigonometry, polynomials, and basic calculus but is challenged by partial differential equations. They have access to undergraduate mathematics books covering topics such as number theory, Fourier series, differential equations, matrix theory, and numerical analysis. The student aims to tackle complex problems, including polynomial behavior in different arithmetic systems, within a two-month timeframe.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of trigonometry and polynomial theorems
  • Familiarity with introductory calculus concepts
  • Knowledge of differential equations
  • Understanding of modular arithmetic
NEXT STEPS
  • Study number theory focusing on polynomial properties in modular arithmetic
  • Explore Fourier series and their applications in solving differential equations
  • Learn techniques for solving second-order differential equations
  • Investigate LaPlace transforms and their use in engineering mathematics
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for high school students, mathematics enthusiasts, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of advanced mathematical concepts and problem-solving techniques.

recon
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I'm in the middle of my three-month holiday and would like to have an assignment in mathematics, at the post-secondary/pre-undergraduate level. I already know basic trigonometry identities, polynomials (factor and remainder theorems) and very basic calculus (I am stumped by partial differential equations). I'm above average in my mathematics class, and have access to decaying undergraduate mathematics books (full of bookworms, yech) that were handed down to me by a friend. Those books cover almost everything: number theory, Fourier series, differential equations, matrix theory, numerical analysis, etc. I have not started on these books, because I simply don't know WHERE to start.

I'm willing to sacrifice the next one month of my holidays for this assignment, so make it TOUGH, but still accomplishable within at least 2 months. I don't have a preference for an area in mathematics. I consider myself to be a fairly fast learner, and I like it when I know what I'm working towards.

Oh, I'm 15 years old, but am more 16/17 than 15, being the youngest in my class.
 
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Here's a more exploratory problem:

What facts about polynomials are still true when you're using a different arithmetic system? One example is for all of your arithmetic to be done modulo 3.

Here are some interesting examples to ponder:

When you're doing arithmetic modulo 3, what do you think about the polynomial [itex]x^3 - x[/itex]?

When you're doing arithmetic modulo 8, what are the factors of the polynomial [itex]x^2 - 1[/itex]?
 
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Have you solved a second order differential equation yet? If you haven't look into all steps needed to solve those.

Also look at LaPlace transforms.
 

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