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

Introduction and Review. Free Fall and Harmonic Oscillators. Linear Algebra. Nonlinear Dynamics. The Harmonics of Vibrating Strings. Non-sinusoidal Harmonics and Special Functions. Complex Representations of Functions. Transform Techniques in Physics. Vector Analysis and EM Waves. Extrema and Variational Calculus. Problems in Higher Dimensions. Review of Sequences and Infinite Series.