Real Analysis and Applications: Theory in Practice (Undergraduate Texts in Mathematics)

This new approach to real analysis stresses the use of the subject with respect to applications, i.e., how the principles and theory of real analysis can be applied in a variety of settings in subjects ranging from Fourier series and polynomial approximation to discrete dynamical systems and nonlinear optimization. Users will be prepared for more intensive work in each topic through these applications and their accompanying exercises. This book is appropriate for math enthusiasts with a prior knowledge of both calculus and linear algebra.

This new approach to real analysis stresses the use of the subject in applications, showing how the principles and theory of real analysis can be applied in various settings. Applications cover approximation by polynomials, discrete dynamical systems, differential equations, Fourier series and physics, Fourier series and approximation, wavelets, and convexity and optimization. Each chapter has many useful exercises.

The treatment of the basic theory covers the real numbers, functions, and calculus, while emphasizing the role of normed vector spaces, and particularly of Rⁿ. The applied chapters are mostly independent, giving the reader a choice of topics. This book is appropriate for students with a prior knowledge of both calculus and linear algebra who want a careful development of both analysis and its use in applications.

Review of the previous version of this book, Real Analysis with Real Applications:

"A well balanced book! The first solid analysis course, with proofs, is central in the offerings of any math.-dept.; ---and yet, the new books that hit the market don't always hit the mark: the balance between theory and applications, ---between technical proofs and intuitive ideas, ---between classical and modern subjects, and between real life exercises vs. the ones that drill a new concept. The Davidson-Donsig book is outstanding, and it does hit the mark."

Palle E. T. Jorgenson, Review from Amazon.com

Kenneth R. Davidson is University Professor of Mathematics at the University of Waterloo. Allan P. Donsig is Associate Professor of Mathematics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.