Introduction to dynamical systems and chaos /

Dynamical systems consider the behavior of points over time in both continuous and discrete systems. An Introduction to Dynamical Systems and Chaos is a text that does as the title suggests--it introduces readers to ideas within the subject. The text is a strong and rigorous treatment of the introduction of dynamical systems; the first eight chapters cover continuous dynamics, and the last five discuss discrete dynamics. The section on continuous dynamics initiates a discussion surrounding one-dimensional flows, stability, oscillations, bifurcations, Hamiltonian systems, and symmetry analysis. The section on discrete dynamics includes tent and logistic maps, the Smale horseshoe map, symbolic dynamics, and fractals and chaos theory. The exercises presented at the end of each chapter are suitable for upper-level undergraduates and graduate students. As a reference source, the text is very well-organized with its division of the subject into continuous and discrete dynamical systems. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through professionals and practitioners. --Michael David Sanford, Felician College