Mathematical Foundations for Chemistry, Physics, and Engineering

Bridges abstract mathematics with chemistry, physics, and engineering problem-solving

Students in chemistry, physics, and materials science often struggle to connect abstract mathematics with real physical applications. Mathematical Foundations for Chemistry, Physics, and Engineering presents complex mathematical ideas in a student-friendly, step-by-step style, ensuring readers never lose sight of the molecule.

Across fourteen carefully structured chapters, the book progresses logically from vectors, linear vector spaces, and matrix characteristics, through group theory, Fourier and Laplace transforms, to special functions and partial differential equations.

Designed specifically to bridge the gap between pure mathematics and the physical sciences, this comprehensive text introduces mathematical problems first, followed immediately by practical applications in quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, and chemical kinetics. It includes unique pedagogical features like Fact Boxes and Red Flags to guide learners.

The book offers:

• A logical progression across fourteen chapters, moving from vector spaces and matrices to partial differential equations
• Practical applications drawn directly from physical chemistry, quantum mechanics, molecular spectroscopy, and advanced chemical kinetics
• Comprehensive coverage of group theory, Fourier transforms, and Laplace transforms tailored for scientific problem-solving
• Student-friendly features including Math Textboxes, Fact Boxes, and Red Flags to prevent common mistakes
• Eleven extensive appendices containing standard character tables, transform properties, special function formulas, and vital numerical methods

Designed for upper undergraduate and postgraduate students in chemistry, physics, and materials science, this textbook also serves engineering and molecular biology majors. It equips readers with the essential analytical tools needed to confidently tackle complex problems across the physical sciences.

RITA KAKKAR, PhD, is a former Senior Professor and Head of the Department of Chemistry and Dean of the Faculty of Science at the University of Delhi, where she completed a distinguished 37-year career teaching Physical Chemistry. She has published over 200 research papers in Computational Chemistry, supervised 50 doctoral theses, and authored a book on atomic and molecular spectroscopy published by Cambridge University Press.