Lie group analysis, based on symmetry and invariance principles, is the only systematic method for solving nonlinear differential equations analytically. One of Lie's striking achievements was the discovery that the majority of classical devices for integration of special types of ordinary differential equations could be explained and deduced by his theory. Moreover, this theory provides a universal tool for tackling considerable numbers of differential equations when other means of integration fail. * This is the first modern text on ordinary differential equations where the basic integration methods are derived from Lie group theory * Includes a concise and self contained introduction to differential equations * Easy to follow and comprehensive introduction to Lie group analysis * The methods described in this book have many applications The author provides students and their teachers with a flexible text for undergraduate and postgraduate courses, spanning a variety of topics from the basic theory through to its many applications. The philosophy of Lie groups has become an essential part of the mathematical culture for anyone investigating mathematical models of physical, engineering and natural problems.

This book is a straightforward introduction to the subject of symmetry methods for solving differential equations, and is aimed at applied mathematicians, physicists, and engineers. The presentation is informal, using many worked examples to illustrate the main symmetry methods. It is written at a level suitable for postgraduates and advanced undergraduates, and is designed to enable the reader to master the main techniques quickly and easily.The book contains some methods that have not previously appeared in a text. These include methods for obtaining discrete symmetries and integrating factors.

A self-contained introduction to the methods and techniques of symmetry analysis used to solve ODEs and PDEs Symmetry Analysis of Differential Equations: An Introduction presents an accessible approach to the uses of symmetry methods in solving both ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and partial differential equations (PDEs). Providing comprehensive coverage, the book fills a gap in the literature by discussing elementary symmetry concepts and invariance, including methods for reducing the complexity of ODEs and PDEs in an effort to solve the associated problems. Thoroughly class-tested, the author presents classical methods in a systematic, logical, and well-balanced manner. As the book progresses, the chapters graduate from elementary symmetries and the invariance of algebraic equations, to ODEs and PDEs, followed by coverage of the nonclassical method and compatibility. Symmetry Analysis of Differential Equations: An Introduction also features: Detailed, step-by-step examples to guide readers through the methods of symmetry analysis End-of-chapter exercises, varying from elementary to advanced, with select solutions to aid in the calculation of the presented algorithmic methods Symmetry Analysis of Differential Equations: An Introduction is an ideal textbook for upper-undergraduate and graduate-level courses in symmetry methods and applied mathematics. The book is also a useful reference for professionals in science, physics, and engineering, as well as anyone wishing to learn about the use of symmetry methods in solving differential equations.

This book is devoted to explaining a wide range of applications of con tinuous symmetry groups to physically important systems of differential equations. Emphasis is placed on significant applications of group-theoretic methods, organized so that the applied reader can readily learn the basic computational techniques required for genuine physical problems. The first chapter collects together (but does not prove) those aspects of Lie group theory which are of importance to differential equations. Applications covered in the body of the book include calculation of symmetry groups of differential equations, integration of ordinary differential equations, including special techniques for Euler-Lagrange equations or Hamiltonian systems, differential invariants and construction of equations with pre scribed symmetry groups, group-invariant solutions of partial differential equations, dimensional analysis, and the connections between conservation laws and symmetry groups. Generalizations of the basic symmetry group concept, and applications to conservation laws, integrability conditions, completely integrable systems and soliton equations, and bi-Hamiltonian systems are covered in detail. The exposition is reasonably self-contained, and supplemented by numerous examples of direct physical importance, chosen from classical mechanics, fluid mechanics, elasticity and other applied areas.

Despite the fact that Sophus Lie's theory was virtually the only systematic method for solving nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs), it was rarely used for practical problems because of the massive amount of calculations involved. But with the advent of computer algebra programs, it became possible to apply Lie theory to concrete proble

This text explores the essentials of partial differential equations as applied to engineering and the physical sciences. Discusses ordinary differential equations, integral curves and surfaces of vector fields, the Cauchy-Kovalevsky theory, more. Problems and answers.