Why We Wrote This Book
Most of the topics in this book are problem or data driven. We use data sets to develop differential equations, to obtain values of parameters in differential equations, and to check the accuracy of mathematical models. We give careful attention to mathematical modeling, solution techniques, and interpretation of results. Different disciplines view the data-modeling process in different ways. In some disciplines, the model is constructed based on established principles, and then the data set is used to test the model. In other disciplines, the data set is used to construct the model empirically, and then the model is used to predict subsequent behavior. This book deals with both approaches. Nevertheless, the emphasis of the book is on differential equations, not modeling. Many of the data sets used in the book are available for download.
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