MAT4240 Numerical Methods for Differential Equations: Home

Partial differential equations are the chief means of providing mathematical models in science, engineering and other fields. Generally these models must be solved numerically. This book provides a concise introduction to standard numerical techniques, ones chosen on the basis of their general utility for practical problems. The authors emphasise finite difference methods for simple examples of parabolic, hyperbolic and elliptic equations; finite element, finite volume and spectral methods are discussed briefly to see how they relate to the main theme. Stability is treated clearly and rigorously using maximum principles, energy methods, and discrete Fourier analysis. Methods are described in detail for simple problems, accompanied by typical graphical results. A key feature is the thorough analysis of the properties of these methods. Plenty of examples and exercises of varying difficulty are supplied. The book is based on the extensive teaching experience of the authors, who are also well-known for their work on practical and theoretical aspects of numerical analysis. It will be an excellent choice for students and teachers in mathematics, engineering and computer science departments seeking a concise introduction to the subject.

This book introduces finite difference methods for both ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and partial differential equations (PDEs) and discusses the similarities and differences between algorithm design and stability analysis for different types of equations. A unified view of stability theory for ODEs and PDEs is presented, and the interplay between ODE and PDE analysis is stressed. The text emphasizes standard classical methods, but several newer approaches also are introduced and are described in the context of simple motivating examples.
The book is organized into two main sections and a set of appendices. Part I addresses steady-state boundary value problems, starting with two-point boundary value problems in one dimension, followed by coverage of elliptic problems in two and three dimensions. It concludes with a chapter on iterative methods for large sparse linear systems that emphasizes systems arising from difference approximations. Part II addresses time-dependent problems, starting with the initial value problem for ODEs, moving on to initial boundary value problems for parabolic and hyperbolic PDEs, and concluding with a chapter on mixed equations combining features of ODEs, parabolic equations, and hyperbolic equations. The appendices cover concepts pertinent to Parts I and II. Exercises and student projects, developed in conjunction with this book, are available on the book's webpage along with numerous MATLAB m-files.
Readers will gain an understanding of the essential ideas that underlie the development, analysis, and practical use of finite difference methods as well as the key concepts of stability theory, their relation to one another, and their practical implications. The author provides a foundation from which students can approach more advanced topics and further explore the theory and/or use of finite difference methods according to their interests and needs.