A Course in Mathematical Methods for Physicists

Based on the author's junior-level undergraduate course, this introductory textbook is designed for a course in mathematical physics. Focusing on the physics of oscillations and waves, A Course in Mathematical Methods for Physicists helps students understand the mathematical techniques needed for their future studies in physics. It takes a bottom-up approach that emphasizes physical applications of the mathematics. The book offers: A quick review of mathematical prerequisites, proceeding to applications of differential equations and linear algebra Classroom-tested explanations of complex and Fourier analysis for trigonometric and special functions Coverage of vector analysis and curvilinear coordinates for solving higher dimensional problems Sections on nonlinear dynamics, variational calculus, numerical solutions of differential equations, and Green's functions