Book excerpt: The only comprehensive guide to modeling, characterizing, and solving partial differential equations This classic text by Erich Zauderer provides a comprehensive account of partial differential equations and their applications. Dr. Zauderer develops mathematical models that give rise to partial differential equations and describes classical and modern solution techniques. With an emphasis on practical applications, he makes liberal use of real-world examples, explores both linear and nonlinear problems, and provides approximate as well as exact solutions. He also describes approximation methods for simplifying complicated solutions and for solving linear and nonlinear problems not readily solved by standard methods. The book begins with a demonstration of how the three basic types of equations (parabolic, hyperbolic, and elliptic) can be derived from random walk models. It continues in a less statistical vein to cover an exceptionally broad range of topics, including stabilities, singularities, transform methods, the use of Green's functions, and perturbation and asymptotic treatments. Features that set Partial Differential Equations of Applied Mathematics, Second Edition above all other texts in the field include: Coverage of random walk problems, discontinuous and singular solutions, and perturbation and asymptotic methods More than 800 practice exercises, many of which are fully worked out Numerous up-to-date examples from engineering and the physical sciences Partial Differential Equations of Applied Mathematics, Second Edition is a superior advanced-undergraduate to graduate-level text for students in engineering, the sciences, and applied mathematics. The title is also a valuable working resource for professionals in these fields. Dr. Zauderer received his doctorate in mathematics from the New York University-Courant Institute. Prior to joining the staff of Polytechnic University, he was a Senior Weitzmann Fellow of the Weitzmann Institute of Science in Rehovot, Israel.