Includes bibliographical references (page 178) and index.
Introduction -- Mathematical preliminaries -- Estimation of time constants by exponential trial functions -- Estimation of length constants by exponential trial functions -- Parabolic trial functions -- The QSTF method for unforced oscillations -- Forced oscillation and resonance -- Exact solution of partial differential equations -- Estimation of lowest eigenvalues by parabolic trial functions -- The QSTF method for conduction and diffusion equations -- Extending the QSTF method -- Appendix 1. Selected functions -- Appendix 2. Series -- Appendix 3. Dedimensionalisation and reduction of parameters -- Appendix 4. Solution of algebraic equations -- Appendix 5. Coordinate systems, Laplacian operator and important partial differential equations -- Appendix 6. Trigonometric relations and Fourier series.
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In creating mathematical models of real processes, scientists, engineers and students frequently encounter differential equations whose exact solutions are necessarily complicated and are normally solvable only by computer or through complex formal mathematics. This practical book demonstrates how approximate methods may be used to minimize these mathematical difficulties, giving the reader physical understanding both of the solution process and the final result. Intended for undergraduates and graduate students, teachers of physics, engineering and other applied sciences, professional and applied scientists and engineers.