The Mathematics of the Brusselator

Abstract

Modeling an oscillating chemical reaction with ordinary differential equations was a way to combine my two greatest interests, chemistry and mathematics. Oscillating systems are rare and particularly mysterious. Little is known about what makes these reactions “tick,” as most chemical reactions proceed in one direction until a dynamic equilibrium is reached, making this an intriguing and challenging subject. This research topic was an excellent way to expand my knowledge of differential equations while broadening my understanding of “chemical clocks.”