This note presents a simple theorem which explains why the method of undetermined coefficients works in finding a particular solution, both for differential equations and difference equations. (Author)

Presented with appropriate formulas and illustrations are five lessons suitable for college mathematics undergraduate students, including Pi and the limit of (sin alpha)/alpha, the structure of orthogonal transformations, a simple proof of Zorn's Lemma, the converse of Liouville's Theorem, and visualizing the p-adic integers. (JJK)

Considered is the open-ended question of the various means of marking an n-inch ruler so that the distance of any integral number of inches from 1 to n can be ascertained with a single measurement. The relationship between a sparsely marked ruler, which is one gracefully marked with the fewest number of marks, and specific discrete graphs is…

Using a graphical analysis of the linear best fit for a set of Cartesian data points, the drawbacks of the least-squares method for determining this best fit are discussed. The Wald Line, which utilizes a variation of the geometric mean, is proposed as the best alternative to the least-squares regression line particularly when the data contain…

Clapping music for two performers provides the basis for a series of mathematical problems in combinatorics and group theory. A discussion provides insight about how to avoid overlooking global extrema in constrained max-min problems when solving systems of algebraic equations. (JJK)

To illustrate that the writing and utilizing of declarative language programs can be a straightforward task in a logic class, a logic system is defined and a truth-table generator and validator are implemented using PROLOG programing language. Also, using BASIC programing language, an example of a contour map is presented. (JJK)

The discrete mathematics topics of trees and computational complexity are implemented in a simple reliability program which illustrates the process advantages of the PASCAL programing language. The discussion focuses on the impact that reliability research can provide in assessment of the risks found in complex technological ventures. (Author/JJK)