In recent years approximation theory and the theory of orthogonal polynomials have witnessed a dramatic increase in the number of solutions of difficult and previously untouchable problems. This is due to the interaction of approximation theoretical techniques with classical potential theory (more precisely, the theory of logarithmic potentials, which is directly related to polynomials and to problems in the plane or on the real line). Most of the applications are based on an exten sion of classical logarithmic potential theory to the case when there is a weight (external field) present. The list of recent developments is quite impressive and includes: creation of the theory of non-classical orthogonal polynomials with re spect to exponential weights; the theory of orthogonal polynomials with respect to general measures with compact support; the theory of incomplete polynomials and their widespread generalizations, and the theory of multipoint Pade approximation. The new approach has produced long sought solutions for many problems; most notably, the Freud problems on the asymptotics of orthogonal polynomials with a respect to weights of the form exp(-Ixl ); the "l/9-th" conjecture on rational approximation of exp(x); and the problem of the exact asymptotic constant in the rational approximation of Ixl. One aim of the present book is to provide a self-contained introduction to the aforementioned "weighted" potential theory as well as to its numerous applications. As a side-product we shall also fully develop the classical theory of logarithmic potentials.

Studies fundamental properties of the logarithmic potential and their connections to the theory of Fourier series, to potential theory, and to function theory. This book contains material that centers around a study of Poisson's integral in two dimensions and of the corresponding Stieltjes integral.

This book studies fundamental properties of the logarithmic potential and their connections to the theory of Fourier series, to potential theory, and to function theory. The material centers around a study of Poisson's integral in two dimensions and of the corresponding Stieltjes integral. The results are then extended to the integrals in terms of Green's functions for general regions. There are some thirty exercises scattered throughout the text. These are designed in part to familiarize the reader with the concepts introduced, and in part to complement the theory. The reader should know something of potential theory, functions of a complex variable, and Lebesgue integrals. The book is based on lectures given by the author in 1924-1925 at the Rice Institute and at the University of Chicago.

The volume contains the following monographs: The Logarithmic Potential by Evans Fundamental Existence Theorems by Bliss Differential-Geometric Aspects of Dynamics by Kasner All three monographs were originally published by the AMS and are now available in this single volume from AMS Chelsea Publishing.