Modelling with Differential and Difference Equations

Any student wishing to solve problems via mathematical modelling will find that this book provides an excellent introduction to the subject.

Glenn Fulford (Author), Peter Forrester (Author), Arthur Jones (Author)

9780521440691, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 12 June 1997

416 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 2.7 cm, 0.78 kg

"If you are looking for a textbook for an introdutory course on mathematical modeling, with an emphasis on differential and difference equations and basic calculus as the only prerequisite, then give this book serious consideration. It is very well written and very well structured.... overall presentation of material is excellent.... an excellent reference for anyone who has an interest in mathematical modeling....The foundation that this text helps to build will easily allow the reader to move on to more advanced texts on mathematical modeling." The UMAP Journal

The real world can be modelled using mathematics, and the construction of such models is the theme of this book. The authors concentrate on the techniques used to set up mathematical models and describe many systems in full detail, covering both differential and difference equations in depth. Amongst the broad spectrum of topics studied in this book are: mechanics, genetics, thermal physics, economics and population studies. Any student wishing to solve problems via mathematical modelling will find that this book provides an excellent introduction to the subject.

Preface
Introduction to the student
Part I. Simple Models In Mechanics: 1. Newtonian mechanics
2. Kinematics on a line
3. Ropes and pulleys
4. Friction
5. Differential equations: linearity and SHM
6. Springs and oscillations
Part II. Models with Difference Equations: 7. Difference equations
8. Linear difference equations in finance and economics
9. Non-linear difference equations and population growth
10. Models for population genetics
Part III. Models with Differential Equations: 11. Continuous growth and decay models
12. Modelling heat flow
13. Compartment models of mixing
Part IV. Further Mechanics: 14. Motion in a fluid medium
15. Damped and forced oscillations
16. Motion in a plane
17. Motion in a circle
Part V. Coupled Models: 18. Models with linear interactions
19. Non-linear coupled models
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Mathematical modelling [PBWH]