A Student's Guide to Infinite Series and Sequences

Description

Why study infinite series? Not all mathematical problems can be solved exactly or have a solution that can be expressed in terms of a known function. In such cases, it is common practice to use an infinite series expansion to approximate or represent a solution. This informal introduction for undergraduate students explores the numerous uses of infinite series and sequences in engineering and the physical sciences. The material has been carefully selected to help the reader develop the techniques needed to confidently utilize infinite series. The book begins with infinite series and sequences before moving onto power series, complex infinite series and finally onto Fourier, Legendre, and Fourier-Bessel series. With a focus on practical applications, the book demonstrates that infinite series are more than an academic exercise and helps students to conceptualize the theory with real world examples and to build their skill set in this area.

Bernhard W. Bach, Jr is the Director of Undergraduate Laboratories at the University of Nevada, Reno. His research interests focus on Gamma ray, X-ray and UV spectroscopy, and the manufacture of diffractive optics and spectroscopic instrumentation. He has contributed to the design and construction of scientific instruments for numerous space-flight missions and synchrotron light sources around the world.

'Ideal for students at an early stage in their physical sciences or engineering courses. ... [Bernhard W. Bach, Jr's] writing style is relaxed and easy-going, and he is at pains to not overwhelm the reader with any unnecessary background detail. A broad range of material is covered and at a level deliberately accessible for those who have not yet studied more advanced mathematical methods.' J. M. Christian, Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (ima.org.uk)