. One can undertake a large number of virtual experiments based on the model equations of a process to optimize the operating conditions and/or design the system efficiently. In most of the practical processes, model equations involve more than one parameters leading to partial differential equations (PDE). Various solutions techniques are adopted by the process engineers to solve the partial differential equations. Separation of variables is one of the most robust techniques used for analytical solution of PDEs. This technique provides first hand information of process dynamics rendering it amenable for optimization of system performance. This course aims to develop the solutions techniques and hence the skills of the students to solve PDEs for any engineering applications. (from nptel.ac.in)