Differential Equations For Dummies

by Holzner, Steven

• ISBN13: 9780470178140
• ISBN10: 0470178140
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2008-06-03
• Publisher: For Dummies

Summary

The fun and easy way to understand and solve complex equationsMany of the fundamental laws of physics, chemistry, biology, and economics can be formulated as differential equations. This plain-English guide explores the many applications of this mathematical tool and shows how differential equations can help us understand the world around us. Differential Equations For Dummies is the perfect companion for a college differential equations course and is an ideal supplemental resource for other calculus classes as well as science and engineering courses. It offers step-by-step techniques, practical tips, numerous exercises, and clear, concise examples to help readers improve their differential equation-solving skills and boost their test scores.

Author Biography

Steven Holzner is an award-winning author of science, math, and technical books. He got his training in differential equations at MIT and at Cornell University, where he got his PhD. He has been on the faculty at both MIT and Cornell University, and has written such bestsellers as Physics For Dummies and Physics Workbook For Dummies.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Focusing on First Order Differential Equations

Welcome to the World of Differential Equations

Looking at Linear First Order Differential Equations

Sorting Out Separable First Order Differential Equations

Exploring Exact First Order Differential Equations and Euler's Method

Surveying Second and Higher Order Differential Equations

Examining Second Order Linear Homogeneous Differential Equations

Studying Second Order Linear Nonhomogeneous Differential Equations

Handling Higher Order Linear Homogeneous Differential Equations

Taking On Higher Order Linear Nonhomogeneous Differential Equations

The Power Stuff: Advanced Techniques

Getting Serious with Power Series and Ordinary Points

Powering through Singular Points

Working with Laplace Transforms

Tackling Systems of First Order Linear Differential Equations

Discovering Three Fail-Proof Numerical Methods

The Part of Tens

Ten Super-Helpful Online Differential Equation Tutorials

Ten Really Cool Online Differential Equation Solving Tools

Index

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