Synchronization is a universal phenomenon that is encountered in nature, science and engineering. The book presents a broad view of modern theoretical and experimental approaches to synchronization, especially in complex and chaotic systems, and its applications in life sciences and engineering. Contributors include applied mathematicians, physicists, biologists, and specialists in communications and control theory. The study of synchronization is presented in its many aspects: basic mathematical theory, numerical simulation of complex systems, applications of methods in theoretical physics, experimental implementation, and applications in engineering and life sciences.

Systems as diverse as clocks, singing crickets, cardiac pacemakers, firing neurons and applauding audiences exhibit a tendency to operate in synchrony. These phenomena are universal and can be understood within a common framework based on modern nonlinear dynamics. The first half of this book describes synchronization without formulae, and is based on qualitative intuitive ideas. The main effects are illustrated with experimental examples and figures, and the historical development is also outlined. The second half of the book presents the main effects of synchronization in a rigorous and systematic manner, describing both classical results on synchronization of periodic oscillators, and recent developments in chaotic systems, large ensembles, and oscillatory media.

Synchronization is a universal phenomenon that is encountered in nature, science and engineering. The book presents a broad view of modern theoretical and experimental approaches to synchronization, especially in complex and chaotic systems, and its applications in life sciences and engineering. Contributors include applied mathematicians, physicists, biologists, and specialists in communications and control theory. The study of synchronization is presented in its many aspects: basic mathematical theory, numerical simulation of complex systems, applications of methods in theoretical physics, experimental implementation, and applications in engineering and life sciences.

Lyapunov exponents lie at the heart of chaos theory, and are widely used in studies of complex dynamics. Utilising a pragmatic, physical approach, this self-contained book provides a comprehensive description of the concept. Beginning with the basic properties and numerical methods, it then guides readers through to the most recent advances in applications to complex systems. Practical algorithms are thoroughly reviewed and their performance is discussed, while a broad set of examples illustrate the wide range of potential applications. The description of various numerical and analytical techniques for the computation of Lyapunov exponents offers an extensive array of tools for the characterization of phenomena such as synchronization, weak and global chaos in low and high-dimensional set-ups, and localization. This text equips readers with all the investigative expertise needed to fully explore the dynamical properties of complex systems, making it ideal for both graduate students and experienced researchers.