All You Wanted to Know about Mathematics but Were Afraid to Ask

Physics and engineering students need a clear understanding of mathematics in order to solve a vast array of problems posed to them in coursework. Unfortunately, in many textbooks, mathematical proofs and techniques obscure a fundamental understanding of the physical principles. In a clear and didactic manner, this book explains to the student why particular advanced mathematical techniques are useful for solving certain problems. The aim is to convey a deeper appreciation of mathematical methods that are applicable to physics and engineering through a discussion of a wide range of real physical problems. The topics covered include simultaneous equations, three-dimensional geometry and vectors, complex numbers, differential equations, partial derivatives, Taylor series, and Lagrange multipliers.

Both books are bookmarked.

Contents

Volume 1

1 Simultaneous equations
2 Three-dimensional geometry
3 Vectors
4 Complex numbers
5 Ordinary differential equations
6 Partial derivatives
7 Taylor series
8 Lagrangian multipliers

Volume 2

9 Integrals
10 Vector operators
11 Partial differential equations
12 Fourier series
13 Normal modes
14 Waves
15 Matrices
16 Eigenvectors and eigenvalues