Introduction to Mathematical Modeling Using Discrete Dynamical Systems

Using discrete dynamical systems, this book introduces powerful mathematical modeling techniques, both standard analytical and modern computational, to students in mathematics, the natural sciences, and the social sciences. With minimal mathematical background, students will quickly progress from the traditional study of exponential growth and decay that simple linear equations always exhibit, to an investigation of recently discovered chaotic dynamics often associated with nonlinear systems. A wide diversity of applications demonstrates the usefulness and relevance of topics that have often been viewed as excessively theoretical or abstract, such as sequences, limits, linear algebra, complex variables, and more. By taking advantage of discrete dynamical systems, students will have the opportunity to experience some fascinating areas of mathematical discovery.