Smith, Megan2016-04-042016-04-042004http://hdl.handle.net/11603/2695From Mark McKibben: Megan’s paper exceeded all my expectations for this project. The topic she chose was pertinent to her major field of study (i.e., chemistry) and at the time was completely unfamiliar to her. The mathematics involved in the topic, as it turns out, was rather complicated, requiring background that went well beyond what could be covered in a first-year course in differential equations. However, Megan took on this challenge head-on, learned all that she could on the topic area without much guidance from me, and performed admirably. She even illustrated the utility of the abstract mathematical model by conducting an experiment that it purported to describe – she was successful! This work is far more than what I would normally expect from a first-year college student, and is evidence of an inspired, hard-working student with intellectual spark.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.”9 p.en-USCollection may be protected under Title 17 of the U.S. Copyright Law. To obtain information or permission to publish or reproduce, please contact the Goucher Special Collections & Archives at 410-337-6347 or email archives@goucher.edu.Research -- Periodicals.Text