Book excerpt: Now the acclaimed Second Edition of Numerical Recipes is available in the C++ object-oriented programming language. Including and updating the full mathematical and explanatory contents of Numerical Recipes in C, this new version incorporates completely new C++ versions of the more than 300 Numerical Recipes routines that are widely recognized as the most accessible and practical basis for scientific computing. The product of a unique collaboration among four leading scientists in academic research and industry, Numerical Recipes is a complete text and reference book on scientific computing. In a self-contained manner it proceeds from mathematical and theoretical considerations to actual practical computer routines. Highlights include linear algebra, interpolation, special functions, random numbers, nonlinear sets of equations, optimization, eigensystems, Fourier methods and wavelets, statistical tests, ODEs and PDEs, integral equations and inverse theory. The authors approach to C++ preserves the efficient execution that C users expect, while simultaneously employing a clear, object-oriented interface to the routines. Tricks and tips for scientific computing in C++ are liberally included. The routines, in ANSI/ISO C++ source code, can thus be used with almost any existing C++ vector/matrix class library, according to user preference. A simple class library for stand-alone use is also included in the book. Both scientific programmers new to C++, and experienced C++ programmers who need access to the Numerical Recipes routines, can benefit from this important new version of an invaluable, classic text.