Computer Algebra Recipes

This book presents a large number of computer algebra worksheets or "recipes" that have been designed using MAPLE to provide tools for problem solving and to stimulate critical thinking. No prior knowledge of MAPLE is necessary. All relevant commands are introduced on a need-to-know basis and are indexed for easy reference. Each recipe features a scientific model or method and an interesting or amusing story designed to both entertain and enhance concept comprehension and retention.

"This book is written in the same spirit as the earlier text [Computer algebra recipes for mathematical physics. In accordance with the title of the book, the three chapters of the book are named as follows: I. The appetizers; II. The entrees; III. The deserts. Each chapter is divided into several dozens of subsections, patterned in the same way: a cover story about a modelling problem, some mathematical background, Maple solution of the problem with graphics, a set of problems. No prior knowledge of Maple is required from the reader: the authors suggest that new users of Maple read the book in natural order while experiences users may skip some parts and go directly to the topic of their interest. The cover stories are chosen from most diverse subjects that well describe the universal role of scientific modelling. A central theme is the use of systems of ordinary differential equations with many variations. For instance the love affair between Romeo and Juliet is analyzed in this way." (Matti Vuorinen, Zentralblatt MATH)