Solution Techniques for Elementary Partial Differential Equations, Second Edition

Incorporating a number of enhancements, Solution Techniques for Elementary Partial Differential Equations, Second Edition presents some of the most important and widely used methods for solving partial differential equations (PDEs). The techniques covered include separation of variables, method of characteristics, eigenfunction expansion, Fourier and Laplace transformations, Green’s functions, perturbation methods, and asymptotic analysis.

New to the Second Edition

New sections on Cauchy–Euler equations, Bessel functions, Legendre polynomials, and spherical harmonics
A new chapter on complex variable methods and systems of PDEs
Additional mathematical models based on PDEs
Examples that show how the methods of separation of variables and eigenfunction expansion work for equations other than heat, wave, and Laplace
Supplementary applications of Fourier transformations
The application of the method of characteristics to more general hyperbolic equations
Expanded tables of Fourier and Laplace transforms in the appendix
Many more examples and nearly four times as many exercises



This edition continues to provide a streamlined, direct approach to developing students’ competence in solving PDEs. It offers concise, easily understood explanations and worked examples that enable students to see the techniques in action. Available for qualifying instructors, the accompanying solutions manual includes full solutions to the exercises. Instructors can obtain a set of template questions for test/exam papers as well as computer-linked projector files directly from the author.