Book excerpt: Master the tools of MATLAB through hands-on examples Shows How to Solve Math Problems Using MATLAB The mathematical software MATLAB® integrates computation, visualization, and programming to produce a powerful tool for a number of different tasks in mathematics. Focusing on the MATLAB toolboxes especially dedicated to science, finance, and engineering, MATLAB® with Applications to Engineering, Physics and Finance explains how to perform complex mathematical tasks with relatively simple programs. This versatile book is accessible enough for novices and users with only a fundamental knowledge of MATLAB, yet covers many sophisticated concepts to make it helpful for experienced users as well. The author first introduces the basics of MATLAB, describing simple functions such as differentiation, integration, and plotting. He then addresses advanced topics, including programming, producing executables, publishing results directly from MATLAB programs, and creating graphical user interfaces. The text also presents examples of Simulink® that highlight the advantages of using this software package for system modeling and simulation. The applications-dedicated chapters at the end of the book explore the use of MATLAB in digital signal processing, chemical and food engineering, astronomy, optics, financial derivatives, and much more.