Differential Equations and Boundary Value Problems: Computing and Modeling

Focusing on the mathematical modelling of real-world phenomena, this work presents a broad discussion of nonlinear systems and phenomena, ranging from phase plane analysis to ecological and mechanical systems to a concluding section on chaos and bifurcation in dynamical systems. As well as 2000 graded problems, the book features computer projects that illustrate the use of computer algebra systems, such as Maple, Mathematica, and MATLAB.

Reflecting the shift in emphasis from traditional methods to new computer-based methods, this text -- in classic Edwards and Penney style -- focuses on the mathematical modeling of real-world phenomena as the goal and constant motivation for the study of differential equations. It offers a fresh computational flavor in figures, examples, problems, and projects throughout, and features a broad range of real-world applications. The book also covers topics not found in other similar texts.