Discrete Dynamical Modeling

This book presents an introduction to the wide range of techniques and applications for dynamic mathematical modeling that are useful in studying systemic change over time. The author expertly explains how the key to studying change is to determine a relationship between occurring events and events that transpire in the near future. Mathematical modeling of such cause-and-effect relationships can often lead to accurate predictions of events that occur farther in the future. Sandefur's approach uses many examples from algebra--such as factoring, exponentials and logarithms--and includes many interesting applications, such as amortization of loans, balances in savings accounts, growth of populations, optimal harvesting strategies, genetic selection and mutation, and economic models. This book will be invaluable to students seeking to apply dynamic modeling to any field in which change is observed, and will encourage them to develop a different way of thinking about the world of mathematics.

James T. Sandefur is at Georgetown University.