Differential Equations: A Problem Solving Approach Based on MATLAB

The book takes a problem solving approach in presenting the topic of differential equations. It provides a complete narrative of differential equations showing the theoretical aspects of the problem (the hows and whys), various steps in arriving at solutions, multiple ways of obtaining solutions and comparison of solutions. A large number of comprehensive examples are provided to show depth and breadth and these are presented in a manner very similar to the instructors class room work. The examples contain solutions from Laplace transform based approaches alongside the solutions based on eigenvalues and eigenvectors and characteristic equations. The verification of the results in examples is additionally provided using Runge-Kutta offering a holistic means to interpret and understand the solutions. Wherever necessary, phase plots are provided to support the analytical results. All the examples are worked out using MATLAB(R) taking advantage of the Symbolic Toolbox and LaTex for displaying equations. With the subject matter being presented through these descriptive examples, students will find it easy to grasp the concepts. A large number of exercises have been provided in each chapter to allow instructors and students to explore various aspects of differential equations.