In recent years, due primarily to the proliferation of computers, dynamical systems has again returned to its roots in applications. It is the aim of this book to provide undergraduate and beginning graduate students in mathematics or science and engineering with a modest foundation of knowledge. Equations in dimensions one and two constitute the majority of the text, and in particular it is demonstrated that the basic notion of stability and bifurcations of vector fields are easily explained for scalar autonomous equations. Further, the authors investigate the dynamics of planar autonomous equations where new dynamical behavior, such as periodic and homoclinic orbits appears.

This is a somewhat unusual book with a dual purpose. First, it is a manual to help readers learn how to use PRASER, the program on the accompanying diskette for mM personal computers. Second, it is an illustrated guide to the wonderful world of experimental and theoretical dynamics, one which presents dozens of concrete examples ranging from the most rudimentary, appropriate for the beginning student, to the highly complex, suitable for the research mathematician. Before indicating what PRASER does and how it works, let me describe how it came a.bout. During the past decade the field of differential and difference equations has witnessed a remarkable explo sion of knowledge, not only in theory but also in applications to discip lines as diverse as biology and fluid mechanics. Computers have played a crucial role in this process by making possible detailed analyses of specific systems. In this regard, one need only mention the work of Lorenz on strange attractors and the discoveries of Feigenbaum on the bifurcations of interval maps.

In recent years, due primarily to the proliferation of computers, dynamical systems has again returned to its roots in applications. It is the aim of this book to provide undergraduate and beginning graduate students in mathematics or science and engineering with a modest foundation of knowledge. Equations in dimensions one and two constitute the majority of the text, and in particular it is demonstrated that the basic notion of stability and bifurcations of vector fields are easily explained for scalar autonomous equations. Further, the authors investigate the dynamics of planar autonomous equations where new dynamical behavior, such as periodic and homoclinic orbits appears.

Phaser is a sophisticated program for IBM personal com- puters, developed atBrown University by the author and some of his students, which enables usersto experiment with differential and difference equations and dynamical systems in an interactive environment using graphics. This book begins with a brief discussion of the geometric inter- pretation of differential equations and numerical methods, and proceeds to guide the student through the use of the program. To run Phaser, you need an IBM PC, XT, AT, or PS/2 with an IBM Color GRaphics Board (CGB), Enhanced Graphics Adapter (VGA). A math coprocessor is supported; however, one is not required for Phaser to run on the above hardware.