By connecting applications, modeling, and visualization, Gary Rockswold motivates students to learn mathematics in the context of their experiences. In order to both learn and retain the material, students must see a connection between the concepts and their real lives. In this new edition, connections are taken to a new level with "See the Concept" features, where students make important connections through detailed visualizations that deepen understanding. Rockswold is also known for presenting the concept of a function as a unifying theme, with an emphasis on the rule of four (verbal, graphical, numerical, and symbolic representations). A flexible approach allows instructors to strike their own balance of skills, rule of four, applications, modeling, and technology. 0321900456 / 9780321900456 Algebra and Trigonometry with Modeling & Visualization Plus MyMathLab with Pearson eText - Access Card Package Package consists of: 0321431308 / 9780321431301 MyMathLab/MyStatLab -- Glue-in Access Card 0321654064 / 9780321654069 MyMathLab Inside Star Sticker 0321826124 / 9780321826121 Algebra and Trigonometry with Modeling & Visualization

This book develops the mathematical tools essential for students in the life sciences to describe interacting systems and predict their behavior. From predator-prey populations in an ecosystem, to hormone regulation within the body, the natural world abounds in dynamical systems that affect us profoundly. Complex feedback relations and counter-intuitive responses are common in nature; this book develops the quantitative skills needed to explore these interactions. Differential equations are the natural mathematical tool for quantifying change, and are the driving force throughout this book. The use of Euler’s method makes nonlinear examples tractable and accessible to a broad spectrum of early-stage undergraduates, thus providing a practical alternative to the procedural approach of a traditional Calculus curriculum. Tools are developed within numerous, relevant examples, with an emphasis on the construction, evaluation, and interpretation of mathematical models throughout. Encountering these concepts in context, students learn not only quantitative techniques, but how to bridge between biological and mathematical ways of thinking. Examples range broadly, exploring the dynamics of neurons and the immune system, through to population dynamics and the Google PageRank algorithm. Each scenario relies only on an interest in the natural world; no biological expertise is assumed of student or instructor. Building on a single prerequisite of Precalculus, the book suits a two-quarter sequence for first or second year undergraduates, and meets the mathematical requirements of medical school entry. The later material provides opportunities for more advanced students in both mathematics and life sciences to revisit theoretical knowledge in a rich, real-world framework. In all cases, the focus is clear: how does the math help us understand the science?

What mathematical modeling uncovers about life in the city X and the City, a book of diverse and accessible math-based topics, uses basic modeling to explore a wide range of entertaining questions about urban life. How do you estimate the number of dental or doctor's offices, gas stations, restaurants, or movie theaters in a city of a given size? How can mathematics be used to maximize traffic flow through tunnels? Can you predict whether a traffic light will stay green long enough for you to cross the intersection? And what is the likelihood that your city will be hit by an asteroid? Every math problem and equation in this book tells a story and examples are explained throughout in an informal and witty style. The level of mathematics ranges from precalculus through calculus to some differential equations, and any reader with knowledge of elementary calculus will be able to follow the materials with ease. There are also some more challenging problems sprinkled in for the more advanced reader. Filled with interesting and unusual observations about how cities work, X and the City shows how mathematics undergirds and plays an important part in the metropolitan landscape.

This book, intended for a graphing required college algebra and trigonometry or precalculus course, offers an innovative approach by demonstrating the importance of mathematics to students and presenting the material in an accessible manner. The text consistently integrates mathematical concepts with real applications in order to enhance student intuition and understanding. Symbolic (algebraic), graphical, numerical, and verbal skills are continually reinforced throughout. When introducing mathematical ideas, the text moves from the concrete to the abstract, rather than the reverse. It is the authors' philosophy that learning is increased when students can relate a concept to something in their lives. Hence, mathematical concepts are often introduced through applications that help make the mathematics "real" to students. Students see the importance of a topic from a practical and intuitive point of view, with models and applications playing a central part in the learning process.

"The text is suitable for a typical introductory algebra course, and was developed to be used flexibly. While the breadth of topics may go beyond what an instructor would cover, the modular approach and the richness of content ensures that the book meets the needs of a variety of programs."--Page 1.

Math in Society is a survey of contemporary mathematical topics, appropriate for a college-level topics course for liberal arts major, or as a general quantitative reasoning course.This book is an open textbook; it can be read free online at http://www.opentextbookstore.com/mathinsociety/. Editable versions of the chapters are available as well.

Bob Blitzer has inspired thousands of students with his engaging approach to mathematics, making this beloved series the #1 in the market. Blitzer draws on his unique background in mathematics and behavioral science to present the full scope of mathematics with vivid applications in real-life situations. Students stay engaged because Blitzer often uses pop-culture and up-to-date references to connect math to students' lives, showing that their world is profoundly mathematical.