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 oneâs own time. An unfortunate effect of the predominance of fads is that if a student doesnât learn about such worthwhile topics as the wave equation Gaussâs hypergeometric function the gamma function and the basic problems of the calculus of variationsâamong othersâas 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 authorâa highly respected educatorâadvocates 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 Gaussâs bell curve and improves coverage of Fourier analysis numerical methods and linear algebra. Relating the development of mathematics to human activityâi. e. identifying why and how mathematics is usedâthe text includes a wealth of unique examples and exercises as well as the authorâs 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 Gaussâs bell curve Improves coverage of Fourier analysis numerical methods and linear algebra Relates the development of mathematics to human activityâi. e. identifying why and how mathematics is used Includes a wealth of unique examples and exercises as well as the authorâs 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. . Language: English