Book excerpt: Finite Difference Methods in Heat Transfer, Second Edition focuses on finite difference methods and their application to the solution of heat transfer problems. Such methods are based on the discretization of governing equations, initial and boundary conditions, which then replace a continuous partial differential problem by a system of algebraic equations. Finite difference methods are a versatile tool for scientists and for engineers. This updated book serves university students taking graduate-level coursework in heat transfer, as well as being an important reference for researchers and engineering. Features Provides a self-contained approach in finite difference methods for students and professionals Covers the use of finite difference methods in convective, conductive, and radiative heat transfer Presents numerical solution techniques to elliptic, parabolic, and hyperbolic problems Includes hybrid analytical–numerical approaches