Customer Reviews

Elementary Differential Equations

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I used this book for my Introductary Differential Equations course and it satisfied my needs with respect to presentation of the theory and clear examples.

Although I have never used any other Differential Equations book, I suspect that many are very similiar. The material itself is not as theoretical as something like Linear Algebra (which is tied very strongly to the course), but it is still a intresting subject.

A wealth of applications and non-theroetical topics were covered as well as some intresting theoretical sections such as, 2 dimensional linear systems and equilbriums (indeed all of Chapter 8 "Non-Linear Systems" was quite intresting).

The structure of the book deviates often from the standard "Theorem-Proof-Example" order, usually, when deemed appropriate defers to a more advanced treatment of the particular subject matter.

Usually, each section is introduced by some exposition on why the topic is intresting or may mention some historical notes of the topic. The examples and problem sets given in the books were my only real complaint as I felt they were trivial even for the class I was taking (a non-honors course). However, this seems to be a trait common in many modern textbooks of math.

I believe this book would very much satisfy the needs of a physics or other natural sciences student. It presents relevent examples, clear exposition, rigor when useful and practical, and covers most of the standard topics in intro. Differential Equations (however, the section on numerical methods is rather small given the expected mean reader of this book).

All in all a decent book, one quick note, the binding on my book (hardcover) is starting to loosen up and certain sections have cracked.... Since I did not use this book often and bought it new, the assembling of this book is suspect, although i cannot say whether this is just mine or if it is common to others.