2026/2027

Special Functions

ID 1248502

Type: Optional course (faculty)

Delivered by: Faculty of Mathematics

Where: Faculty of Mathematics

When: 3, 4 module

Open to: students of all HSE University campuses

Instructors: Anton Shchechkin

Language: English

ECTS credits: 6

Contact hours: 72

Course Syllabus

Abstract

The course offers a practice-oriented introduction to the special functions of mathematical physics, primarily those of the hypergeometric type. Its aim is to develop proficiency in the standard analytical methods used to study special functions through classical examples: (1) representing functions in the form of integrals and series, (2) determining and applying asymptotic behavior, (3) evaluating special values and degenerations, (4) studying differential and difference properties, and so on. The functions considered (the gamma function, zeta functions, Gauss hypergeometric function, etc.) are somehow at the next level of complexity after elementary functions. These special functions and the methods used to study them are crucially important for mathematics, theoretical and mathematical physics, and physical chemistry.