Differential equations with applications and historical notesUpplaga 2

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 present emphasis on abstract modes of thought is that if a student doesn't learn something about such worthwhile classical 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 applications and the history of the subject, 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 examples and exercises, as well as the author's distinctive historical notes. A solutions manual is available upon qualifying course adoption. (Bookdata)