Fads are as common in mathematics as in any other human activity, and it
is always difficult to separate the enduring from the ephemeral in the
achievements of one's own time. An unfortunate effect of the
predominance of fads is that if a student doesn't learn about such
worthwhile topics as the wave equation, Gauss's hypergeometric function,
the gamma function, and the basic problems of the calculus of
variations-among others-as an undergraduate, then he/she is unlikely to
do so later.
The natural place for an informal acquaintance with such ideas is a
leisurely introductory course on differential equations. Specially
designed for just such a course, Differential Equations with
Applications and Historical Notes takes great pleasure in the journey
into the world of differential equations and their wide range of
applications. The author-a highly respected educator-advocates a careful
approach, using explicit explanation to ensure students fully comprehend
the subject matter.
With an emphasis on modeling and applications, the long-awaited Third
Edition of this classic textbook presents a substantial new section on
Gauss's bell curve and improves coverage of Fourier analysis, numerical
methods, and linear algebra. Relating the development of mathematics to
human activity-i.e., identifying why and how mathematics is used-the
text includes a wealth of unique examples and exercises, as well as the
author's distinctive historical notes, throughout.
- Provides an ideal text for a one- or two-semester introductory course
on differential equations
- Emphasizes modeling and applications
- Presents a substantial new section on Gauss's bell curve
- Improves coverage of Fourier analysis, numerical methods, and linear
algebra
- Relates the development of mathematics to human activity-i.e.,
identifying why and how mathematics is used
- Includes a wealth of unique examples and exercises, as well as the
author's distinctive historical notes, throughout
- Uses explicit explanation to ensure students fully comprehend the
subject matter
Outstanding Academic Title of the Year, Choice magazine, American
Library Association.
