Mathematical modelling

"Mathematical modelling is the art of applying mathematics to a real-life situation. A good model recognises the relevant features of a problem by means of a judicious choice of assumptions and has a well-defined mathematical structure from which the quantities of practical interest can be derived. The traditional academic course in mathematics provides instruction in formal techniques for developing existing models but usually fails to help in devising new models for problems facing the practising mathematician in the real world. To give the student an insight into the process by which mathematicians adapt their mathematics to real-life situations, the Editors have assembled case studies from the fields of engineering, physics, chemistry, biology, medicine, operational research, business planning and social studies. Each case study, written by an expert in the particular subject, demonstrates the particular elements and style of mathematical structure required for the practical situation. Together with each case study are problems for further study of both a 'closed' and 'open'-ended nature"--Back cover.