THEORY AND PROBLEMS OF CALCULUS OF FINITE DIFFERENCES AND DIFFERENCES EQUATIONS

This book is designed to be used either as a textbook for a formal course in the calculus of finite differences and difference equations or as a comprehensive supplement to all current standard texts. It should also be of considerable value to those taking courses in which difference methods are employed or to those interested in the field for self-study.

Each chapter begins with a clear statement of pertinent definitions, principles and theorems, together with illustrative and other descriptive material. The solved problems serve to illustrate and amplify the theory, bring into sharp focus those fine points without which the student continually feels himself on unsafe ground, and provide the repetition of basic principles so vital to effective learning. Numerous proofs of theorems and derivations of formulas are included among the solved problems. The large number of supplementary problems with answers serves as a complete review of the material of each chapter.

Topics covered include the difference calculus, the sum calculus and difference equations [analogous to differential calculus, integral calculus and differential equations respectively] together with many applications.