Physical Mathematics

Unique in its clarity, examples and range, Physical Mathematics explains as simply as possible the mathematics that graduate students and professional physicists need in their courses and research. The author illustrates the mathematics with numerous physical examples drawn from contemporary research. In addition to basic subjects such as linear algebra, Fourier analysis, complex variables, differential equations and Bessel functions, this textbook covers topics such as the singular-value decomposition, Lie algebras, the tensors and forms of general relativity, the central limit theorem and Kolmogorov test of statistics, the Monte Carlo methods of experimental and theoretical physics, the renormalization group of condensed-matter physics and the functional derivatives and Feynman path integrals of quantum field theory. 'Cahill has given us a concise and mathematically clear text, one that adds many contemporary topics to a classic selection.' R. Glauber, Harvard University 'This book provides a comprehensive coverage of the mathematics necessary for advanced study in physics. The key notions are presented concisely and accurately with a wealth of beautiful examples borrowed from physics, biophysics and probability theory. The inclusion of advanced topics such as differential forms and group theory makes [it] a most useful resource for graduate students and researchers in theoretical physics.' Alain Comtet, Universite Pierre et Marie Curie 'I am impressed by the extremely clear and direct style with which this book has been written. I am sure that today's PhD students, advanced undergraduates and researchers in physics will derive great benefit from using this book. The author has distilled his experience and obvious enjoyment of the subject, and presented mathematics in a remarkably human and accessible form.' David Waxman, Fudan University 'Professor Kevin Cahill's book collects and presents the mathematical methods of physics succinctly, and will be much welcomed by students and researchers alike.' A. Zee, University of California, Santa BarbaraPreface; 1. Linear algebra; 2. Fourier series; 3. Fourier and Laplace transforms; 4. Infinite series; 5. Complex-variable theory; 6. Differential equations; 7. Integral equations; 8. Legendre functions; 9. Bessel functions; 10. Group theory; 11. Tensors and local symmetries; 12. Forms; 13. Probability and statistics; 14. Monte Carlo methods; 15. Functional derivatives; 16. Path integrals; 17. The renormalization group; 18. Chaos and fractals; 19. Strings; Index.