Main description:

This introductory textbook is based on the premise that the foundation of good science is good data. The educational challenge addressed by this introductory textbook is how to present a sampling of the wide range of mathematical tools available for laboratory research to well-motivated students with a mathematical background limited to an introductory course in calculus.

Contents:

Science and the mathematics of black boxes.- The mathematics of change.- Equilibria and steady states.- Stability.- Fixed-points: Creation and destruction.- Transient dynamics.- Frequency domain I: Bode plots and transfer functions.- Frequency domain II: Fourier analysis and power spectra.- Feedback and control systems.- Oscillations.- Beyond limit cycles.- Random perturbations.- Noisy dynamical systems.- Random walkers.- Thermodynamic perspectives.