This book is to present a highly readable introduction to dynamical systems, namely initial-value problems of systems of differential equations (mathematics), and particle dynamics (mechanics). Linear algebra is extensively covered as a prerequisite.

This is the stand-alone second volume of a book that covers an integrated approach to mathematics and mechanics from elementary to graduate level material of scientific curricula-the first of this breadth.

A simple, intuitive approach is used throughout. In particular, gut-level proofs are preferred over abstract ones, even if not succinct and elegant. To make the volume simple to read and, at the same time, rigorous, additional material (clearly marked as optional) is provided. Overall, every statement is proven-the sentence it may be shown that . . . is banned from this book.

Continuum systems, such as strings, pipes, membranes, and beams, are briefly addressed as limiting cases of discrete ones, with applications to musical string-and wind-instruments.

Advanced material includes: Jordan matrices, power spectral density with application to clean-air-turbulence response, and approximate solutions of nonlinear differential equations by multiple scales and normal form, with application to limit cycles and post-flutter analysis. For completeness, there is an introduction to the numerical integration of differential equations and other computational techniques, in particular optimization and its relationship with genetic algorithms, neural networks, and artificial intelligence.

Covers mathematics and mechanics, in an integrated fashion, from an elementary to an advanced level Is real self-contained book, each statement is proven; without using terms like "one may show that ..." Written by leading experts in the field

Inhalt

1.Series in the real field.- 2.Going complex.- 3.Determinants. Implicit functions.- 4.Initial value problems in mathematics.- 5.Initial value problems in mechanics.- 6.Lagrange and Hamilton mechanics.- 7.Eigenvalue problem in linear algebra.- 8.Natural modes of vibration.- 9.Dynamical systems in mathematics.- 10.Jordan matrices.- 11.Dynamical systems in mechanics.- 12.Complex analysis.- 13.Fourier series.- 14.Fourier transform.- 15.Laplace transform.- 16.Weakly nonlinear equations.- 17.Introductory numerical analysis.