Any familiar with Hirsch's "Differential Equations"

In summary, the conversation is about a person preparing for a math test and being recommended to read the first ten chapters of the book "Differential Equations, Dynamical Systems, and Linear Algebra. First Edition." However, the person has the third edition which has slightly different chapters. They mention wanting to save time and eventually reading the entire book, but they are unsure which chapters correspond to the first ten chapters of the first edition. They ask for help from anyone familiar with the book.
  • #1
phillip56
3
0
So I am going to take some Math test. For the DEs portion, they recommend me to read the first ten chapters of Hirsch's "Differential Equations, Dynamical Systems, and Linear Algebra. First Edition" However, I got the third edition which the book title and contents are a little different. It is named "Differential Equations, Dynamical Systems, and an Introduction to Chaos, Third Edition"

For your convenience, the first ten chapters of the first edition are:
Chapter 1: First Examples
Chapter 2: Newton's Equation and Kepler's Law
Chapter 3: Linear Systems with Constant Coefficiants and Real Eigenvalues
Chapter 4: Linear Systems with Constant Coefficients and Complex Eigenvalues
Chapter 5: Linear Systems and Exponentials of Operators
Chapter 6: Linear Systems and Canonical Forms of Operators
Chapter 7: Contractions and Generic Properties of Operators
Chapter 8: Fundamental Theory
Chapter 9: Stability of Equilibria
Chapter 10: Differential Equations for Electric Circuits

The chapters of the third edition are:
Chapter 1: First-Order Equations
Chapter 2: Planar Linear Systems
Chapter 3: Phase Portraits for Planar Systems
Chapter 4: Classification of Planar Systems
Chapter 5: Higher-Dimensional Linear Algebra
Chapter 6: Higher-Dimensional Linear Systems
Chapter 7: Nonlinear Systems
Chapter 8: Equilibria in Nonlinear Systems
Chapter 9: Global Nonlinear Techniques
Chapter 10: Closed Orbits and Limit Sets
Chapter 11: Applications in Biology
Chapter 12: Applications in Circuit Theory
Chapter 13: Applications in Mechanics
Chapter 14: The Lorenz System
Chapter 15: Discrete Dynamical Systems
Chapter 16: Homoclinic Phenomena
Chapter 17: Existence and Uniqueness Revisited

Of course I would like to read all 17 chapters, but I need to save some time for studying other subjects. Therefore, I will eventually read the entire book... well sooner or later.

In my opinion, the chapters which correspond to the first ten chapters of the first edition are:
Chapter 1: First-Order Equations
Chapter 2: Planar Linear Systems
Chapter 3: Phase Portraits for Planar Systems
Chapter 5: Higher-Dimensional Linear Algebra
Chapter 6: Higher-Dimensional Linear Systems
Chapter 7: Nonlinear Systems
Chapter 8: Equilibria in Nonlinear Systems
Chapter 9: Global Nonlinear Techniques
Chapter 12: Applications in Circuit Theory
Chapter 13: Applications in Mechanics
(and maybe it's beneficial to read Chapter 4: Classification of Planar Systems)

Since I haven't read the book, I am not sure about this list. Anyone who read his book (Either edition or both editions) ? Please tell me if my list is correct, if not please adjust it for me. Thanks!
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF!

I think this is pretty hard to do with one book edition.

Does a nearby library have it? or does your teacher have it?

It would be better if your teacher helped you decide the chapters to read since they suggested the book.
 
  • #3
jedishrfu said:
Welcome to PF!

I think this is pretty hard to do with one book edition.

Does a nearby library have it? or does your teacher have it?

It would be better if your teacher helped you decide the chapters to read since they suggested the book.

Well. The test I'm going to take is some assessment test given by a college. In a nutshell, there's no teacher.

It seems like there is no one who is familiar with this textbook :'(
 

1. What are differential equations?

Differential equations are mathematical equations that describe how a quantity changes over time, often involving rates of change. They are used to model a wide range of natural phenomena such as population growth, chemical reactions, and motion.

2. Who is Hirsch and why is he known for his work on differential equations?

Ernst Hirsch was a mathematician who made significant contributions to the field of differential equations. He is known for his research on the qualitative theory of differential equations, particularly his work on stability and bifurcation theory.

3. What is the importance of studying differential equations?

Differential equations are used extensively in many branches of science and engineering to model and understand various systems and processes. They allow us to make predictions and analyze the behavior of systems over time, making them a vital tool in many scientific fields.

4. Are there different types of differential equations?

Yes, there are various types of differential equations, including ordinary differential equations, partial differential equations, and stochastic differential equations. The type of differential equation used depends on the specific problem being studied and the variables involved.

5. Is knowledge of differential equations necessary for all areas of science?

No, not all areas of science require knowledge of differential equations. However, they are widely used in many fields, including physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. Having an understanding of differential equations can be beneficial in these areas, but it is not necessary for all scientific disciplines.

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