Publisher Description

An accessible introduction to the finite element method for solving numeric problems, this volume offers the keys to an important technique in computational mathematics. Suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses, it outlines clear connections with applications and considers numerous examples from a variety of science- and engineering-related text encompasses all varieties of the basic linear partial differential equations, including elliptic, parabolic and hyperbolic problems, as well as stationary and time-dependent problems. Additional topics include finite element methods for integral equations, an introduction to nonlinear problems, and considerations of unique developments of finite element techniques related to parabolic problems, including methods for automatic time step control. The relevant mathematics are expressed in non-technical terms whenever possible, in the interests of keeping the treatment accessible to a majority of students.

Table of Contents

Preface to the Dover Edition Preface Introduction Introduction to FEM for elliptic problems Abstract formulation of the finite element method for elliptic problems Some finite element spaces Approximation theory for FEM. Error estimates for elliptic problems Some applications to elliptic problems Direct methods for solving linear systems of equations Minimization algorithms. Iterative methods FEM for parabolic problems Hyperbolic problems Boundary element methods Mixed finite element methods Curved elements and numerical integration References Index

Long Description

An accessible introduction to the finite element method for solving numeric problems, this volume offers the keys to an important technique in computational mathematics. Suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses, it outlines clear connections with applications and considers numerous examples from a variety of science- and engineering-related specialties. 1987 edition.

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