An Introduction to the Calculus of Variations

Fox, Charles

ISBN 10: 0486654990 / ISBN 13: 9780486654997

Edité par Dover Publications, 2010

Readable copy. Pages may have considerable notes/highlighting. ~ ThriftBooks: Read More, Spend Less 0.72. N° de réf. du vendeur G0486654990I5N00

Synopsis :

An understanding of variational methods, the source of such fundamental theorems as the principle of least action and its various generalizations, is essential to the study of mathematical physics and applied mathematics.
In this highly regarded text, aimed at advanced undergraduate and graduate students in mathematics, the author develops the calculus of variations both for its own intrinsic interest and because of its wide and powerful applications to modern mathematical physics.
The first two chapters deal with the first and second variation of an integral in the simplest case, illustrated by applications of the principle of least action to dynamical problems. Chapters III and IV delve into pure mathematics, exploring generalizations and isoperimetrical problems. Applied mathematics are discussed in Chapters V, VI, and VII, including studies of least action, a proof of Hamilton's principle and its use in dealing with dynamical problems in the special theory of relativity, and such methods of approximation as the Rayleigh-Ritz method, illustrated by applications to the theory of elasticity. The last three chapters examine variable end points and strong variations, including an account of Weierstrass's theory of strong variations, based upon the work of Hilbert.
Ideal as a text, this volume offers an exceptionally clear presentation of the mathematics involved, with many illustrative examples, while numerous references cite additional source readings for those interested in pursuing a topic further. Students are assumed to have a knowledge of partial differentiation and differential equations.

Présentation de l'éditeur: In this highly regarded text for advanced undergraduate and graduate students, the author develops the calculus of variations both for its intrinsic interest and for its powerful applications to modern mathematical physics. Topics include first and second variations of an integral, generalizations, isoperimetrical problems, least action, special relativity, elasticity, more. 1963 edition.

Détails bibliographiques

Titre : An Introduction to the Calculus of Variations
Éditeur : Dover Publications
Date d'édition : 2010
Reliure : Paperback
Etat : Fair
Etat de la jaquette : No Jacket